Visiting Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights in Frederiksberg, Denmark

Date: 18/08/2024

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is a beacon of artistic and cultural heritage. Founded in 1888 by Carl Jacobsen, the son of Carlsberg Breweries’ founder J.C. Jacobsen, this museum showcases an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiquities. The Glyptotek has grown from Carl Jacobsen’s private collection to a public treasure, featuring works from ancient civilizations like Egypt, Rome, and Greece, as well as masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Degas, and Rodin (Wikipedia).

The architectural evolution of the Glyptotek is as captivating as its collections. The museum’s design blends historicist and neo-classical styles, featuring contributions from prominent architects like Vilhelm Dahlerup and Hack Kampmann. The Winter Garden, a sub-tropical oasis within the museum, offers visitors a serene retreat amidst towering palms and intricate mosaics (Discover Walks).

In recent years, the Glyptotek has undergone significant modernization, ensuring it remains a haven of aesthetic enjoyment and cultural enrichment. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the museum’s history, collections, visitor information, and nearby attractions, making it an essential resource for anyone planning to explore this iconic Copenhagen landmark.

Table of Contents

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: A Comprehensive Guide to Copenhagen’s Historical Art Museum

History of Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Founding and Early Years

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek was founded in 1888 by Carl Jacobsen, the son of J.C. Jacobsen, the founder of Carlsberg Breweries. Carl Jacobsen was an avid art collector, and his passion for art led him to amass a significant collection of sculptures and paintings. His private collection became so extensive that he decided to share it with the public, leading to the establishment of the Glyptotek (Wikipedia).

Initial Collection and Expansion

Initially, the museum’s collection was housed in Carl Jacobsen’s private villa, which was extended in 1882 to include a winter garden. The collection quickly outgrew this space, and by 1885, the ‘house museum’ had expanded to 19 galleries. The first 14 galleries were designed by Vilhelm Dahlerup, while Hack Kampmann designed the last four and conducted a redesign of the winter garden (Wikipedia).

Public Opening and Further Donations

The Glyptotek officially opened to the public in 1897. In 1899, Carl Jacobsen made another significant donation, this time of his vast collection of antiquities. This donation necessitated the construction of an additional wing to accommodate the new items (Glyptoteket).

Architectural Evolution

The museum’s architecture is a blend of historicist and neo-classical styles. The Dahlerup Wing, the oldest part of the museum, features a red brick façade with polished granite columns in a Venetian Renaissance style. The Kampmann Wing, added later, is a more straightforward neo-classical building designed as a series of galleries around a central auditorium used for lectures, small concerts, symposiums, and poetry readings. The two wings are connected by the Winter Garden, which features mosaic floors, tall palms, a fountain, and a dome made of copper and wrought iron (Discover Walks).

Modernization and Recent Developments

In 1996, a new wing was added to the museum, and between 2004 and 2006, all the galleries underwent thorough modernization. These updates were part of an ongoing effort to ensure that the museum remains a place of pleasure and aesthetic enjoyment for visitors (History Hit).

Collections and Exhibitions

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek’s collection is divided into three main categories: the Antiquities Collection, the Danish and French Art Collection, and the Modern Art Collection. The Antiquities Collection includes sculptures and artifacts from ancient cultures around the Mediterranean, such as Egypt, Rome, and Greece. The Danish and French Art Collection features works from prominent artists like Van Gogh, Degas, Rodin, Monet, Renoir, Eckersberg, Købke, and Lundbye. The Modern Art Collection includes contemporary works and sculptures (Everybody Hates a Tourist).

Special Exhibitions and Events

The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, which are integrated into the overall museum experience. These exhibitions often require certain works from the permanent collection to be temporarily removed from display. The museum also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, lectures, and workshops, providing visitors with opportunities to engage more deeply with the collections (Discover Walks).

Notable Architectural Features

One of the most striking features of the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is its Winter Garden, a sub-tropical oasis filled with tall palm trees, a fountain, and a fish pool. This space serves as a relaxing retreat for visitors and is complemented by the museum café, Picnic, which offers a range of delicious dishes, snacks, and cakes (Discover Walks).

Visitor Information

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is open from Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. Specific visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is 115 DKK for adults, and children under 18 can enter for free. A Copenhagen Card provides free admission to the museum and other attractions in the city (The Backpacker’s Bag).

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Located in the heart of Copenhagen, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is easily accessible by public transportation. It is a short walk from Copenhagen Central Station and City Hall Square. Visitors are encouraged to check public transportation schedules in advance and consider purchasing tickets online to avoid queues.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, consider exploring nearby attractions such as Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum of Denmark, and the Copenhagen City Hall. These sites offer a diverse experience of Copenhagen’s cultural and historical landscape (Lonely Planet).

Conclusion

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture. Its rich history, extensive collections, and beautiful architecture make it a unique and memorable experience for visitors to Copenhagen. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the city, the Glyptotek offers something for everyone (Glyptoteket).

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays.

Are guided tours available at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

Yes, the museum offers guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the collections and history of the Glyptotek. Check the museum’s official website for more details and booking information.

How much are the tickets for Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

Admission is 115 DKK for adults, and children under 18 can enter for free. The Copenhagen Card also provides free admission.

What are some nearby attractions to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

Nearby attractions include Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum of Denmark, and the Copenhagen City Hall.

Is the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek accessible by public transportation?

Yes, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation and is a short walk from Copenhagen Central Station and City Hall Square.

Call to Action

Plan your visit to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek today and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Copenhagen. Don’t forget to check out other articles on Copenhagen’s historical sites and follow us on social media for the latest updates!

References

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