Assistens Cemetery
Hovedstaden
Assistens Cemetery, established in 1760 in Copenhagen's Nørrebro district, is both a historic burial ground and an important urban green space. Originally created to relieve overcrowded inner-city graveyards and serve as a paupers' cemetery, it evolved into the prestigious resting place of many notable Danes, including literary icon Hans Christian Andersen, philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, and Nobel laureate physicist Niels Bohr. The cemetery is renowned for its peaceful park-like atmosphere, featuring leafy trees, marble tombs, and serene pathways, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Over time, it became a fashionable excursion destination where citizens enjoyed picnics and quiet reflection despite occasional lively gatherings. Today, it remains an active burial site while also serving as a tranquil public park with designated areas for relaxation. The cemetery is divided into four distinct zones, including a museum-protected section and a memorial park. Its historical walls were designed by architect Philip de Lange. Assistens Cemetery also holds cultural significance, having been featured in films and music album covers. It is easily accessible via the Nørrebros Runddel metro station located at its northern corner. Visitors can explore the grounds with free guided tours and digital audio walks, enriching their understanding of the site's heritage and notable interments.
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Tip: Visit Assistens Cemetery during spring to early autumn for longer opening hours and pleasant weather. Take advantage of free guided tours available in summer or use the digital audio guide for a self-paced exploration. Respect the active burial areas by refraining from sitting or picnicking there; instead, enjoy the designated park zones. Booking group tours in advance is recommended for larger parties. The cemetery is accessible by metro at Nørrebros Runddel station, facilitating easy arrival. No admission fee is required, and the peaceful environment offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature.
Interesting facts
- •Hans Christian Andersen, the famous fairy tale author, is buried here.
- •Nobel Prize-winning physicist Niels Bohr is interred in the cemetery.
- •In the 19th century, it was common for Copenhagen citizens to picnic and socialize in the cemetery grounds.
- •The cemetery's walls were built by renowned architect Philip de Lange.
- •The Nørrebros Runddel metro station, opened in 2019, is located within the cemetery's northern corner.
- •American jazz musicians such as Ben Webster and Kenny Drew settled in Copenhagen and are also buried here.
History
Assistens Cemetery was inaugurated in 1760 outside Copenhagen's Northern City Gate to address overcrowding in inner-city burial sites, especially after the devastating plague of 1711.
Initially intended as a paupers' cemetery, it gradually became the preferred burial ground for prominent citizens from 1785 onward.
The cemetery's enclosure walls were designed by Philip de Lange.
Throughout the 19th century, it gained cultural prominence as a fashionable resting place and excursion site.
In the early 1800s, measures were taken to curb rowdy behavior and grave robbing, including prohibitions on food, drink, and music within the grounds.
The cemetery has evolved into a protected historic site divided into multiple zones, balancing its roles as an active burial ground and a cherished urban park.
Place Guide
Museum-Protected Area (Section A)1760
This section is the oldest part of the cemetery, protected as a museum area, containing many historic tombs of Denmark's cultural elite including Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard. It features classical funerary art and architectural monuments.
Memorial Park (Sections B-F)
These sections serve as a memorial park with landscaped greenery and notable monuments, offering a tranquil environment for reflection and remembrance.
Local Cemetery Areas (Sections H-M and others)
These parts serve as active burial grounds primarily for local residents, with a variety of grave types including urn and children's graves.
Park Areas (Sections G, O-Z, and others)
Large parts of the cemetery function as public parkland where visitors can relax, walk, and enjoy the greenery. Picnics and leisure activities are encouraged here, away from the active burial zones.
Contact
Phone: 33 66 91 00
