Mermaid Island: Copenhagen’s new sensational attraction
Copenhagen is set for a new, 150-meter sensational landmark, as the small, historic harbour island of Trekroner will be transformed into a large-scale entertainment setting meant to attract visitors from all over the world.
** DISCLAIMER: THIS STORY WAS PART OF VISITCOPENHAGENS APRIL FOOL'S PRANK 2023
Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks are about to get competition as a new large-scale entertainment project is underway. The project is revealed on the back of Copenhagen as the World’s Capital of Architecture 2023.
Photo:Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects
Funding the project is a large international investor that plans to commercialise a previously unused part of Copenhagen’s habour bay area. The investor wishes to remain anonymous for the time being; however, a source close to the client says that their market studies show a large profit potential in providing Central Copenhagen with a combination of an iconic landmark of high sensational value and a classic theme park.
Mermaid Island is inspired by H.C. Andersen’s world-famous fairytale and the coming landmark will be located on what is today known as the island of Trekroner at Copenhagen’s harbor. It will be 150 meters high with an 80-meter base and two giant internal ramps for biking and an outside hiking path. On top will be a restaurant with a 360-degree view, direct arrival access from the biking path and with an after-dinner rappelling opportunity. The landmark will also be surrounded with one of the longest rollercoasters in Northern Europe.
The architects behind the project is renowned Danish centennial architectural and design firm Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects.
Jane Wirenfeldt Nielsen, Head of Communication at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects says; “This project is a dream come true. Architects want to mark the world with icons and our intention with this project was to have fun and leave our personal signature on Copenhagen for future generations. I truly believe we succeeded – and I have no doubt that this will be an award-winning landmark for generations.”
As part of the design process, Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects involved target groups and facilitated workshops with tourists and a local second-grade school class.
Jane Wirenfeldt Nielsen, Head of Communication at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects says; “Findings showed that their needs for a green, community-based urban oasis were completely counterproductive to current trends More is more and Mermaid Islands primary function is to impress and induce a general feeling of sensation – it doesn’t really serve any purpose. In recent years, architectural trends have moved towards large-scale, parametric architecture and our clients demand high-profit, experience-based solutions. And since the location at Copenhagen’s harbor lacks grandiosity, we have reduced the new island’s reference to the surrounding area.”
To ensure durability, the monument is made from 400 tons of concrete, steel and copper. However, to compensate emissions, the architects have taken measures to promote biodiversity by cladding it with greens imported from Brazil and the mermaid’s head face directly south as a clear reference to climate change.
Photo:Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects
Jane Wirenfeldt Nielsen, Head of Communication at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects says; “The political part of the design process was really important to us as we passionately want to address concerns of global deforestation and climate change.”
The island is expected to welcome visitors by 2033.
Other Mermaids in Copenhagen
The little mermaid isnt the only mermaid in Copenhagen. See here where you can experience some of the different kinds of mermaids.
The little mermaid
Arguably one of Copenhagen's most iconic tourist attractions, the sculpture of The Little Mermaid was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale.
The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid
This is the abovementioned Genetically Modified Little Mermaid and her location is only a few hundred meters from that of her 'older sister' the well-known Copenhagen landmark of The Little Mermaid.
Mermaid by the Black Diamond
The Black Diamond in Copenhagen is one of the harbourfront’s key modern architecture attractions, and it also has a little mermaid. We won't tell excatly where it is, but go explore and we are sure you'll find it.
Agnete and the merman
Højbro Square, in the centre of Copenhagen, has one of the rarer mermen. Close to the square by the canals, you can find Agnete and the merman down in the water. The only mermaid statue in Copenhagen that is actually underwater.