10 Interesting Facts You Didn't Know About Denmark

Reinier van der Windt

Aug. 9, 2023

5 min read

When you think of Denmark, you might envision beautiful landscapes, innovative designs and a rich historical heritage. However, there is much more to this Scandinavian country than meets the eye. From its captivating cultural practices to its remarkable contributions to science and society, Denmark holds a treasure trove of intriguing facts. Let's dive deeper into 10 lesser known things about Denmark.

• Table of Contents
  • 1. The Kingdom of Bicycles
  • 2. Lego Land
  • 3. The Happiest Country
  • 4. Environmental Stewardship
  • 5. The Little Mermaid
  • 6. Monarchy with a Modern Twist
  • 7. Nordic Cuisine Delights
  • 8. Education and Innovation
  • 9. World War Rescuers
  • 10. Celebrating "Fastelavn"
  • Conclusion

1. The Kingdom of Bicycles

Denmark has earned its reputation as a cycling paradise for good reason. The country boasts an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and paths that have become an integral part of Danish culture. With its flat terrain and bike friendly infrastructure, Denmark actively encourages people of all ages to embrace cycling as their preferred mode of daily transportation and leisure activity. Surprisingly enough, there are actually more bicycles in Denmark than there are cars! This strong commitment to cycling not only promotes environmental sustainability but also fosters a healthier lifestyle among its citizens.

2. Lego Land

Were you aware that one of the world's most beloved toys, LEGO originates from Denmark? The name LEGO itself stems from the Danish phrase "leg godt," which translates to "play well". These iconic plastic building blocks were invented back in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, a skilled Danish carpenter. These building blocks didn't become an immediate hit, but over time, they turned into a worldwide sensation, capturing the imaginations of people across generations. Even today, LEGO remains a source of boundless creativity and happiness for individuals of all ages, surpassing cultural and linguistic boundaries.

3. The Happiest Country

Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries on various global happiness indexes, leaving many curious about what makes its citizens so content. While there isn't one single answer, the concept of "hygge" certainly plays a significant role. Hygge is more than just a word; it's a way of life that revolves around creating comfort and coziness. It involves finding joy in simple pleasures like sharing meals with loved ones or sipping on hot chocolate during a chilly evening. This emphasis on togetherness and cherishing small moments contributes to Denmark's reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world.

4. Environmental Stewardship

Denmark is at the forefront when it comes to renewable energy and environmental sustainability. The country has been dedicated to green initiatives for many years, prioritizing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while embracing clean energy sources. Wind power plays a vital role in Denmark's commitment to sustainability, thanks to the strong winds along its coast. A great example of Denmark's dedication to harnessing wind energy for electricity is the Middelgrunden Wind Farm, located near Copenhagen. This offshore wind farm consists of 20 turbines and generates enough electricity to power tens of thousands of homes. It contributes significantly to Denmark's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

5. The Little Mermaid

Situated on Copenhagen's waterfront, the iconic statue known as "The Little Mermaid" stands as a remarkable symbol of Danish cultural heritage. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's captivating fairy tale, this statue was revealed in 1913 and has since become an emblematic feature of the city. Despite its small size, it possesses a larger than life presence that attracts visitors from all over the world. Interestingly, the statue has encountered various challenges over time, including acts of vandalism and pranks; nevertheless, it continues to captivate and inspire anyone who beholds it.

6. Monarchy with a Modern Twist

Denmark proudly boasts one of the world's oldest continuous monarchies that dates back over a thousand years. Despite its rich historical lineage, the Danish monarchy embraces modern values and practices while honoring traditionQueen Margrethe II, the current reigning monarch, perfectly embodies the fusion of tradition and progress. Beyond her ceremonial duties, Queen Margrethe II is a highly skilled artist and illustrator. Her talents have graced the pages of Danish editions of timeless literature, giving a contemporary twist to the royal lineage of the country.

7. Nordic Cuisine Delights

While Danish pastries enjoy global fame, Denmark's culinary offerings extend far beyond these delightful treats. The emergence of the New Nordic Food movement in the early 2000s revolutionized Denmark's gastronomic scene. Spearheaded by visionary chefs like René Redzepi from Noma, this movement places emphasis on locally sourced ingredients that are in season to create exquisite dishes that beautifully reflect the country's natural abundance. The dedication to sustainable farming practices and artistic presentation has propelled Danish cuisine onto the world stage of gastronomy.

8. Education and Innovation

Denmark holds education and innovation in high regard, which has contributed significantly to its well earned reputation for excellence across various domains. The educational system in the country prioritizes critical thinking, creativity and nurturing an inquisitive mindset. Danish universities are renowned for their research contributions, particularly in fields such as renewable energy, design and life sciences. This commitment to knowledge and innovation has led to groundbreaking discoveries that benefit both Denmark itself and the global community.

9. World War Rescuers

During World War II, Denmark experienced a remarkable act of bravery and compassion. In 1943, when the Nazis planned to deport Danish Jews, the people of Denmark united in an extraordinary way. Ordinary citizens joined forces with the Danish resistance to carry out a secret mission, smuggling Jewish citizens to safety in neutral Sweden. Thanks to their courageous efforts, almost 7,200 out of the 7,800 Danish Jews were rescued from the atrocities of the Holocaust.

10. Celebrating "Fastelavn"

Denmark has its own unique tradition called "Fastelavn", which is celebrated before Lent. This festive event has deep historical roots and shares some similarities with Halloween. During Fastelavn, people dress up in costumes and take part in parades through the streets while enjoying delicious sweets before the start of Lenten season. One popular tradition is "slå katten af tønden" or "hit the cat out of the barrel". In this entertaining game, blindfolded children take turns trying to break open a barrel filled with candies and treats. The child who successfully breaks open the barrel is crowned as either the "cat king" or "cat queen", adding a touch of whimsy to Denmark's rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

In summary, Denmark's appeal goes well beyond its beautiful scenery and groundbreaking design. The country's passion for cycling and environmental sustainability, along with its rich royal heritage and history of resilience, contribute to a plethora of unexpected pleasures. Denmark's distinct cultural traditions, emphasis on happiness and valuable contributions across different domains make it a nation that never fails to fascinate and motivate. Whether you're discovering its lively cities or immersing yourself in its breathtaking landscapes, Denmark beckons you to delve into the many intriguing layers of its captivating essence.