Odense city details. Odense, Denmark - Tourist

21.08.2020

Odense is the unofficial capital of the island of Funen Denmark. As the third largest city in Denmark, Odense contains everything that a traveler might be interested in: from bright nightlife, delightful streets and shops to the rich cultural heritage.

general information

Odense is located right in the center of Funen Island, which, in turn, is located between largest island Zealand and a small peninsula. The first written mention of the city dates back to 988 AD. in a letter to the German Kaiser Otto III.

Some recent archaeological finds have shown that there were settlements on the island already during the Viking period. At the time, however, Odense was just a small center for the Odin cult. In 1100, St. Knud, the first monastery, was erected by English Benedictine monks.

Until the middle of the 17th century, Odense successfully occupied the position of the main trade center for people from the surrounding areas. Local produce and livestock were exported from the city. However, the war with Sweden in 1600 weakened the Odense economy. This economic downturn continued until 1803, when a canal linking Odense with the Baltic Sea was opened. Odense quickly reincarnated as seaport and over the next 100 years, it grew into the modern industrial city that it still is today.

Odense currently has a population of 185,871, making it the third largest city in Denmark.

Odense is also home to the world famous storyteller Hans Christian Andersen. The city has many statues and monuments in his honor, as well as parades. Andersen was born on April 2, 1805, in a tiny house on the Münkemölstrede street, very close to the cathedral. During his life, Andersen created many famous fairy tales that are now known throughout the world. For example, The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, and The Snow Queen.

I usually book hotels on booking (), and you can compare hotel prices from different sites. For fans of renting a private apartment - in the Trevelask section you can search for such offers.

How to get there

By plane

Odense airport

After the construction of the Great Belt Bridge, domestic flights and international flights have become less popular. However, the small company Airborne (AirBorne) operates summer flights to some cities in Italy, such as, and Trieste.

The rest of the flights are operated from more than major airports located in other cities of Denmark, but since Odense is located in the center of the peninsula, it is relatively close to them.

Copenhagen airport

You can travel from this airport to Odense by train through the city. This road will take anywhere from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. On buses from the airport, it is important to get your ticket validated before boarding the train.

Billund airport

Hop on a local bus or any other Kolding or Vejle brand and it will take you straight to Odense. Trains leave approximately every half hour during the day, and after 1 am every two hours. The trip will total 1 hour 30 minutes.

You can see which flight option is most convenient for you.

By train

Odense is connected to most of Denmark's main cities by rail. The trains are of exceptional quality, with comfortable seats, food and drinks served throughout your journey.

During periods of large influx of tourists, it will be more advisable to book train tickets in advance. Trains, as a rule, do not leave too early and not late at night, they run quite often and always get to the designated station on time. Tickets are checked during each trip. Smoking is prohibited on the train.

Odense is about 1.5 - 2 hours drive from Copenhagen (trains leave 2 - 3 times per hour); 1 hour 45 minutes from Aarhus; 1 hour 20 minutes - 1 hour 50 minutes from Esbjerg in southern Jutland; 4 - 5 hours drive from Hamburg ().

Prompt:

Odense - the time is now

Difference in hours:

Moscow 2

Kazan 2

Samara 3

Ekaterinburg 4

Novosibirsk 6

Vladivostok 9

When is the season. When is the best time to go

Odense - monthly weather

Prompt:

Odense - monthly weather

Major attractions. What to see

Brandts Klædefabrik

Brandts Torv 1, phone +45 65 20 70 00. Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 to 17.00, on Thursday - until 21.00. Odense Art and Culture Center. Consists of 2 museums: the Museum of Media, which focuses on all types of media and their history, and the Museum of the Art of Photography, which has 4 exhibition halls with varying expositions. There are also specialty shops, a video library, a cinema with specialty films, bars and a post office.

Egeskov Castle

Phone +45 62 27 10 16. Working hours: from 10.00 to 17.00 (July and August - until 20.00). One of the best preserved Renaissance water castles dating from 1554. It is located 30 km south. Now its owner, Count Alefeld, has added many interesting things to this picturesque park, for example: a labyrinth, paths between trees and a museum of rare cars, a toy museum, a vegetable garden and much more. Entrance fee is 175 CZK.

Hans Christian Andersen Garden

City center, behind the Cathedral of St. Knud.

Hans Christian Andersen Memorial Garden

Large flower arrangements, a river and an ice cream shop have turned this park into perfect place for a picnic. Among the sights of the park you can see gazebos, a "Chinese wall", a statue of the author himself and nearby, in the river, a sculpture of a paper boat (a symbol of one of Andersen's fairy tales).

Odense Zoo

Boulevard SDR 306, phone +45 66 11 13 60. Working hours: from 10-.0 to 16.00 (in summer until 18.00). One of the biggest attractions in Denmark, spreading over almost 4 hectares on both sides of the Odense River. In 2001, an oceanarium was opened here and is the main exhibit depicting a journey through South America, with stunning aviaries and rainforest right in the building. Entrance for children - 55 DKK, for adults - 110. For the whole family (2 adults and 2 children) - 200 DKK.

Church of St. Knud

Klosterbakken 2 (next to the town hall), phone +45 66 12 03 92. Opening hours: from 9.00 to 16-00. Cathedral of Saint Knud, who was ranked among the martyrs in 1086. The burials of the king and his brother are in the crypt, where the tombstones of the rest of the dignitaries are also located. Free admission.

Museums and galleries. Which ones are worth visiting?

Karl Nielsen Museum. Klaus Berga Gade 11, phone +45 65 51 46 01. A museum that keeps the biography of the great composer Karl Nielsen. He was born near Odense. The composer is widely known throughout Scandinavia and Great Britain. The most popular pieces are six symphonies. The portrait of Karl Nielsen is featured on the 100 Danish kroner banknote.

Railway Museum of Denmark, Danebrogsgade 24, phone +45 66 13 66 30. Open daily from 10.00 to 16.00 Closes on 24, 25, 31 December and 1 January. The museum is dedicated to the Danish railroad... There is a large model train in the background of nature, a miniature railway and a playground for children. On holidays and during summer holidays in schools, the museum organizes 2 old trains on different routes around the island of Funen. Call ahead to inquire about ticket availability and to reserve seats. Entrance fee: children 5 - 13 years old - 30 CZK, adults - 60 CZK, family - 150 CZK, family of 5 (2 adults, 3 children) - 120 CZK.

Hans Christian Andersen Museum, Banks Boder 29, phone +45 65 51 46 01. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday - from 10.00 to 16.00 (from July to August - until 18.00). The museum is dedicated to the most famous native, writer and poet of Odense - Hans Christian Andersen, who is widely known for his fairy tales. Part of the museum is located in Andersen's alleged home, although this has not been proven. The impressive collection is mostly composed of documents from the time of Andersen's life, his personal documents, antique furniture and many drawings, as well as paper clippings. Entrance fee is 85 CZK.

Galshiot Gallery, Benevenget 22, telephone 66184058. Opening hours: Monday to Friday - from 9.00 to 17.00. This is 2500 sq. m studio of the sculptor Jens Galsciot, connected to the museum. The place is one of the most impressive and largest private art workshops in Denmark. There is a lot to do here as, in addition to the workshop, there is a bronze smelter, a gallery shop, art schools, a weaving workshop, a television studio, a sculpture park and a 400 sq. M. Art gallery. m. The entrance is free.

What to see in the vicinity

Kerteminde, about 20 km northeast, is a lovely seaside town with a large center filled with 16th century buildings. The city has beautiful beaches, mini golf and an aquarium full of sharks.

Rinj is an agronomic town in the center of Funen Island.

Middelfart is a coastal town next to a bridge on the peninsula.

Nyborg is a coastal town with medieval castles, lovely gardens and harbor walks.

Fredericia is a beautiful medieval walled city. 50 minutes by train. In this place you can walk along the old walls of the city, on a magnificent sandy beach very clean and safe. And also you will have the opportunity to visit the peninsula.

Capital of Denmark. Just 90 minutes away by intercity train. You should see the statue of the Little Mermaid, take a walk in the park, or visit the Carlsberg Brewery.

Food. What to try

Budget

China Box, Westergade 1 (next to the town hall), phone +45 66 12 06 24. Opening hours: from 11.00 to 22.00. Quality Chinese takeaway food at affordable prices. Average check: between 22 and 35 DKK.

Emils Hot House, Westergade 17 (next to the town hall), telephone +45 66 12 18 18. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday - from 11.00 to 20.00, from Thursday to Saturday - from 11.00 to 6.00. Burgers, pizza and hot dogs to go. The average bill is in the region of DKK 15 - 45.

Happy Chicken Happy Chicken, Westergade 17 (next to the town hall), phone +45 66 17 85 43. Opening hours: around the clock. Inexpensive Chinese food. The quality is not as high as in China Box. Average check: 20 - 45 CZK.

Cafe du Nord, Westergade 20 (next to the town hall), phone +45 66 11 92 11. Working hours: from 9.00 to 19.00.

Middle level

Cuckoo "s Nest, Westergade 73, phone +45 65 91 57 87. Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday - from 9.00 to 00.00, from Thursday to Saturday - from 9.00 to 2.00, Sunday - from 10.00 to 23.00 Stylish café-bar with a relaxing atmosphere in the front and food court in the back Nachos, burgers, salads, fish and tapas are what you can eat here Main dishes are around 70 - 200 CZK.

Expensive

Den Gamle Kro, Overgade 23, phone +45 66 12 14 33. Opening hours: daily from 11.00 to 23.00. Definitely one of the most attractive restaurants in the country, housed in a historic, half-wooden building that used to be an old tavern built in 1863. A French inspired restaurant serving fine traditional Danish cuisine. Main course - from 189 CZK, two-course lunch - 297 CZK, 5-course lunch - 418 CZK.

Sortebro, Sejerskovvej 20, phone +45 66 13 28 26. Opening hours: daily from 12.00 to 23.00. An 18th century hotel near the Funen village. Danish cuisine.

The average price of a dish from the menu is 215 CZK, a three-course lunch is 495 CZK.

Beverages

Bars in Odense open at different times, with some open almost every day until midnight, while others stay open until 5am or longer.

Albani, Tværgade 2, phone +45 65 48 75 00. Local beer, mainly Odense Pilsner and Odense classic. The brewery was built in 1859.

Australian Bar (A-Bar), (The Australian Bar), Brandts Passage. A-Bar is popular with students and young people due to its low prices... For the most part, it is attended by exchange students. Note: Please present your ID at the entrance. Entrance fee is 45 CZK, drinks are relatively cheap.

Birdies.

Boogies, Noerregade (next to Ryan's Irish Pub). Popular with young people and students, open at night from Mon to Fri. In summer, there is an outdoor area with its own bar.

Froggy cafe.

Westergade 68 5000 Odense C, phone +4565907447

Ryan's of Odense, Fisketorvet 12, phone +45 65 91 53 00. Ryans is an authentic traditional Irish pub filled with Irish drinks and staffed by Irish bartenders. Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 pm.

Odense Casino, Klaus Berga Gade 7 (inside the Radisson Hotel), phone +45 6614 7800, from 7pm to 4am.

American Roulette, Blackjack, Texas Hold Em Poker, Roulette, TouchBet Terminals, Slot Machines, Viking Poker. 60 CZK entrance fee. The entrance is free.

Purchases

Odense Pilsner and Odense Classic (local beer available in shops and bars throughout the city)

Security. What to watch out for

For newcomers, Odense is quite safe, although at times there is information about criminal activity. Be extremely careful late at night and at night.

Things to do

Odense Golf Club, Hestehaven 200, phone + 45-6595-9000. Working hours: from 9.00 to 17.30. Green payments: weekdays - DKK 275, weekends and holidays - DKK 325. Odense Golf Club does not accept euros and you can pay by credit card on weekdays from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.

Karting Hall Odense, phone + 45-70 25 0210.

Odense Symphony Orchestra, phone +45 66 12 44 80, website: odensesymfoni.dk.

Odense Afart. You can embark on a boat tour of the Odense River, starting your journey from recreational area Munke Mose in the city center and stopping along the way at the Odensen Zoo and at Funen Bøge, next to the Funen village.

Football club Odense, Bolbro. Odense has the most active supporters in Denmark, and if you find it hard to catch a home match, Att OB. against FC or BIF, you should definitely go to the stadium and watch it. If you want to have a drink with other fans, go to Sprogø 6 hours before the start of the match. You will find yourself in a wonderful atmosphere of the fans, drinking and singing songs with them.

Education

University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, phone + 45-6550-1000

University College Lillebelt, Asylgade 7-9, Phone + 45-6318-3000

Odense University Hospital (OUH), Sd. Boulevard 29, phone +45 66113333

Lillebelt - Academy of Higher Professional Education, Munke Mose Allé 9, phone +45 70 10 58 00

How to get around the city

Taxi. What features exist

There are a lot of taxis in the city. But compared to buses, they are very expensive. In the taxi parks near railway stations, near the center of Rusengord, as well as at the fish market, you can always catch a taxi.

On Friday or Saturday nights, taxis can be found throughout the city. You can hail a taxi on the street or ask a bar or restaurant to call one for you. It should be noted that taxis are much more expensive at night.

On foot

All the most interesting things in Odense - bars, restaurants, shops - are nearby. All the main hotels in the city are located either in the city center or along the train route - at the stations. As a rule, all the main sights of the city are located within 5-10 minutes walk from each other.

The exception is the village of Funen, which is a 45-minute walk along the promenade. On the same route you can get to the zoo, which is just a 30-minute walk from the center. Both places are located on the banks of the river.

On the boat

For those interested in a more relaxed experience, there is the option of boating. You can take it from the bridge in the Munke Mose park and sail through the zoo to the Funen village. The sailing takes 30 minutes, but you can enjoy the scenery, the river, Danish villages, and it's also easy good way relax.

Buses

Odense Bytrafic buses are available throughout the city and travel frequently. The fare for public transport is CZK 18 for the city and CZK 20 for a trip to the suburbs, as well as intercity flights. You can get to Funen village by city buses no. 21 and 22 and regional buses No. 110 and 111. These buses run every 10 minutes. For a trip to the zoo, choose No. 110, 111 from railway station to the St. Knud gymnasium, from where you will need to walk a little. These buses run every 30 minutes and cost 20 CZK.

Train

The regional train from Odense to Svennborg stops several times on its route in the suburbs. For example, there is a stop not far from the Funen village, in the picturesque place of Fruence Bøge.

Ancient Odense (Odense, "Odin's Sanctuary") - the third largest city in Denmark, the capital of the island of Funen, a picturesque city-park. It is easy to believe that it was in this city that the storyteller Andersen was born - gingerbread houses and tiled roofs, as if descended from illustrations for his books, follow the tourist at every step. In addition, in Odense, the houses where the writer was born and lived for many years are carefully guarded, and heroes of his fairy tales are found everywhere on the streets (of course, in the form of monuments).

How to get there

The city is located near the fjord of the same name, you can get here by train from Copenhagen (278 DKK, 1.5 hours), Aarhus (245 DKK, 1¾ hours), Esbjerg (220 DKK, 1.5 hours). Or from the capital by bus over a suspension bridge (travel time ~ 1.5 hours). The bus station is located near the train station at the address: Dannebrogsgade, 6.

Funen Garden Island, the capital of which is Odense, is located away from the Zeeland Islands, across the picturesque Great Belt. To connect these points, enterprising Danes built a grandiose structure - a 7 km long bridge, the second longest in the world. Needless to say, a bus ride on it is a separate attraction?

Prices on the page are for April 2019.

Search for flights to Copenhagen (nearest airport to Odense)

A bit of history

The first mentions of Odense date back to 988 documents. However, there is evidence that much earlier this time there was also a Viking settlement, which was called Nonnenbakken. In the south of Odense, one of the powerful fortresses with this name, built in the 970s by King Svein Vislobeard, is still preserved.

Weather in Odense

Transport

It is convenient to get around the city on foot, by bike or by bus. In the latter case, boarding is always done through the front doors, the ticket is purchased from the driver (25 DKK, it is better to have the amount without change). The main transit point, where almost all routes converge, is a stop in front of the Church of St. Knuds (Sankt Knuds Kirke). All buses except No. 71 also pass by the bus station, which is located next to the railway. Odense Banegård Center Station.

A taxi rank can be found in front of the station or by calling Odense Taxa: 661-544-15.

While exploring Odense, in no case should you lose sight of the wonderful museum under open air"Funskaya Derevnya".

Parking

Those who come to Odense by car should know that driving in the city, apart from rush hours, when everyone is going to or from work, is quite easy. However, most of the attractions are located in the pedestrian zone, so it is better to park your four-wheeled friend and go explore the city on foot.

Near the city center there is a marked parking along the streets, which is paid for in special machines with small change (it is worth stocking up on coins). Places fill up quickly, but you shouldn't be upset: nearby, near Brandts Klædefabrik, Carl Nielsen Museet and the railway. the station has special large parking lots. Cost 12 DKK per hour.

By bike

There are several bike rentals in the city center, such as City Cykler (Vesterbro 27; 10: 00-17: 30pm Mon-Fri, until 13:00 Sat). The rental price is about 100 DKK per day.

There are also special bike tours from Cycling Embassy in Odense, the cost is about 4000 DKK for a group of up to 25 people, check the details at the information office.

Popular hotels in Odense

Odense attractions and attractions

On main square the city is the town hall, Cathedral, a travel agency and two monuments: one, as you might guess, to Andersen, the second to St. Knud. Here we will tell you more about it, because the Cathedral of St. Knud (Odense Domkirke / Skt. Knuds Kirke) is one of the main attractions of the city.

Cathedral of Saint Knud

The cathedral is interesting not only for its architecture and rich interiors, but also for its sad history. For many centuries, the remains of the Danish king Knud and his brother, who were killed by the rebellious nobility in 1086 in the church of St. Alban, have been buried in the temple. The consequences of this murder for the country opened up dark times. For several years, then Denmark suffered from a crop failure, which at that time was perceived as God's punishment for a crime committed in sacred place- the temple. Mystical horror gave rise to rumors of miracles taking place on the graves of the slain. This led to the canonization of King Knud in 1101, and turned Odense into one of the main places of universal pilgrimage.

The small wooden church of St. Alban could not accommodate the influx of pilgrims, and in 1300 the construction of a new temple began. But it ended only 200 years later. Today gothic cathedral red brick is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. There is a unique gilded carved altar, which depicts 300 biblical characters, as well as a large gilded triptych (1534) by the master Klaus Berg from Lübeck.

But, perhaps, the main thing for which tourists come to Odense is the romantic atmosphere of the city in which the most famous storyteller in the world, Hans Christian Andersen, was born.

Funen Village

While exploring Odense, in no case should you miss the wonderful open-air museum "Funen Village" (Tue-Sun 10: 00-17: 00, adults DKK 75-110, groups of 10 people - DKK 65-100, children up to 17 years old - free). There are small cozy peasant houses surrounded by picturesque gardens or vegetable gardens.

The approximate time for inspection is at least an hour, to take a leisurely stroll along the narrow paths, admire the nature and architecture of old Odense, look into the houses and get acquainted with the life and customs of the peasantry of the 18-19 centuries.

Address: Sejerskovvej, 20.

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Egeskov Castle

Odense and Andersen

But, perhaps, the main thing for which tourists come to Odense is the romantic atmosphere of the city in which the most famous storyteller in the world, Hans Christian Andersen, was born. Here he spent his childhood, from here he began his life, I must say, very difficult.

It is worth taking a walk to the Andersen Park, where his monument is located, the Odenet river with a pretty island and a "paper" boat (in fact, it turned out to be iron). Another Andersen spot is at 3-5 Munkemøllestræde. It was here that the writer spent his childhood.

In general, about 18 sculptures on the theme of Andersen's fairy tales are scattered on the streets of Odense, especially the big-eyed dog from "Ogniv", which has eyes "the size of the Round Tower", is scattered around.

In the Andersen Museum (Tue-Sun 10: 00-16: 00, adults 95 DKK, groups of 10 people - 90 DKK, children up to 17 years old - free) you can see his personal belongings, manuscripts, letters, walk through the library. A modern building adjoins the miniature house - the main exhibition: illustrations to his fairy tales, Andersen's books translated into different languages, and much more. Address: Bangs Boder 29.

Other attractions in Odense

It is worth visiting the Church of St. Hans (Sct. Hans Kirke), standing next to the palace, on Nørregade street, the beautiful Odense Slot palace (now the city council sits here), the Franciscan monastery Graabroedre kloster (now a nursing home).

The Odin Tower (Odinstårnet), built in 1935, also attracts attention. It was once the second tallest tower in Europe. In 1944, a group of Danish Nazis blew it up, after which the tower was not rebuilt, but only a miniature memorial model was left.

Other attractions: the Gothic Church of St. Alban (Sct. Albani Kirke), the old Montergarden Mint, the Church of the Virgin Mary (Vor Frue Kirke), Nonnebakken Hill (Nuns Hill).

In general, about 18 sculptures on the theme of Andersen's fairy tales are scattered on the streets of Odense, the big-eyed dog from Ogniv is especially good.

Egeskov Castle

Another unique attraction of the island of Funen is located 30 km from Odense - the castle of Egeskov, built during the Renaissance in 1554 right in the center of the lake. The foundation of this structure is thousands of oak trunks driven vertically into the bottom of the lake. Hence the name of the castle, which means "oak forest".

Not only the picturesque outskirts of the castle attract attention, but also the interior: antique furniture, paintings, hunting trophies are presented in abundance within the walls of the Egeskov fortress. Around the same - a park with a magnificent botanical garden, many orchids, peacocks strolling sedately, trimmed bushes, a maze of two hundred year old, but still living bamboo.

Odense was founded in 988 (as Nonnebaken), and was an important Viking settlement, which they later named Odense in honor of the god Odin (his largest temple was located here). Under King Knud IV the Holy (ruled 1080-86), the role of the city increased significantly, since it was here that the first diocese (church district) was founded and the largest cathedral was laid, now it bears the name of the king himself. After the canonization of Knud, the city became one of the places of pilgrimage in medieval Europe. In 1804, a port was built here, a harbor was deepened, a canal was laid. The rapid industrial development of the city began. But more than the port was done for the city by its great native, who was born a year after the port was built, in 1805. This is, of course, the most famous Dane - Hans Christian Andersen. 62 years after his death, he became an honorary citizen, a museum, a park, and a library bear his name.

Odense landmarks

The historic center of the city retains its "Andersen" look: spacious streets and quarters, many parks and other greenery, churches, museums, red brick monasteries.

The main historical monument is the 13th century Gothic St. Knud Cathedral in the center of the city, on the edge of a boulevard and a park that slopes down to the river. The crypt contains the ark with the relics of St. Knud. The carved pulpit of the 18th century and the organ famous throughout Denmark have survived. Not far from the cathedral is the even more ancient church of St. Alban, where, in fact, the future saint was killed. Kings Hans I and Christian II are also buried in the city. The Church of Our Lady, in its present appearance of the 19th century, contains a carved altar by the famous German mother Klaus Berg of the 16th century. The Church of St. John, erected in Gothic forms in the 15th century at the monastery of St. John of Jerusalem, was transformed in the middle of the 18th century by King Frederick IV into a baroque residence, Odense Castle.

A museum and a memorial house, in which he spent his childhood, are dedicated to Andersen. Other museums include the "Funen Village" near the town, where the peasant way of life is preserved, and in the town itself, there is the Museum of Funen Art. The Museum of Danish Railways is interesting.

Numerous festivals are held in Odense every summer: organ music, jazz, rock, theater festivals.

Transport

It is convenient to get around the city on foot, by bike or by bus. In the latter case, boarding is always done through the front doors, the ticket is purchased from the driver (17kr, it is better to have the amount without change). The main transit point, where almost all routes converge, is a stop in front of the Church of St. Knuds (Sankt Knuds Kirke). All buses except No. 71 also pass by the bus station, which is located next to the railway. Odense Banegård Center Station.

A taxi rank can be found in front of the station or by calling Odense Taxa: 66 15 44 15.

There are several bike rentals in the city center, such as City Cykler (Vesterbro 27; 10: 00-17: 30pm Mon-Fri, until 13:00 Sat). The rental price is about 99kr per day. Per's Cykler & Knallerter (Vesterbro 95) is located on the same street, but rent is cheaper here - from 50kr per day.

The capital of the island of Funen, a major commercial, industrial and tourist centre- these are not all the characteristics of the city of Odense. In Denmark, and throughout the world, it is known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Anderson. Today, everything in the city reminds us that a famous storyteller was born there.

What is remarkable about this settlement?

Odense in Denmark is a city with a thousand-year history. The first mentions of it date back to 988, but various settlements on its territory existed before. The past of the city is closely connected with the Vikings, as evidenced by the earthen ramparts left after them. Even the name of the city serves as a reminder of the sailing warriors. It comes from the name of their main deity and stands for "Odin's sanctuary."

Among the cities of Denmark, Odense ranks third in size and accommodates about 190 thousand people. On all sides, it is overgrown with suburbs, which are closely adjacent to it. The city is located on the river of the same name, next to the fjord, which is also lucky to be called Odense. It is located in the heart of the island of Funen and is its unofficial capital, central to the region's economy.

From Odense it is easy to get to Copenhagen. It is connected with the capital of Denmark and the island of Zealand by the longest suspension bridge in Europe, which crosses the Belt Strait. The bridge is approximately 18 kilometers long.

Attractions Odense in Denmark

Odense is a typical Danish city, modern and old at the same time. Large enterprises and developed industry did not at all affect its improvement. Low-rise buildings with tiled roofs give it coziness and intimacy. Green parks, well-groomed streets and bicycles at every turn make it comfortable and truly European.

Odense in Denmark abounds historical monuments... It contains many examples of typical northern European red brick architecture. The Cathedral of St. Knud, the Cathedral of St. Hans, the Church of St. Alban, the Abbey of Greyfriars, the Church of the Virgin Mary were built in this style. Other interesting places in the city include the mint, the city hall, built in the historic Italian style, the Oden Symphony Orchestra, the city theater, and the Viking defensive rampart - Nonnebakken Hill.

Hans Christian Andersen

In the city of Odense in Denmark, a huge number of attractions are dedicated to Andersen. And although he lived here for only 14 years, the famous writer is the real pride of local residents. One of the largest city parks is named after him, and sculptures of the heroes of his fairy tales can be found on various streets and lanes. In the center of Odense, you can find a monument dedicated to Andersen himself.

The author of "The Ugly Duckling", "Thumbelina" and "The Snow Queen" was born in a poor neighborhood on the cute Munkemøllestræde street, which has retained its historical appearance to this day. And now you can find a modest one-story house with a tiled roof on it, where the writer spent his childhood. Nearby is a modern museum dedicated to all aspects of the life and work of the writer. Here are collected personal belongings of Andersen, his drawings, as well as unusual exhibits, allowing you to fully experience the atmosphere of his works.

Cathedral of Saint Knud

The Cathedral in Odense in Denmark is an example of brick Gothic architecture. Its construction began in 1300 and continued for two hundred years. The place where the cathedral stands has always been considered sacred. In the early Middle Ages, the Vikings prayed to their gods here, and in the 11th century it housed a wooden church.

The history of the former temple is mystical. It was erected in honor of the deceased King Knud, who was killed by the rebellious people. The massacre of the objectionable ruler was carried out right on the altar of the local monastery, after which the city was engulfed in years of crop failure and famine. The peasants took this as God's punishment and immediately took the king to the face of the Saints, and built a cathedral to bury his relics. In 1247, the temple burned down, and a Gothic church appeared in its place.

Odin's tower

This landmark is striking not in its beauty or antiquity, but it could well become the most popular tower in Denmark. In Odense, it was built in 1935 and was the second largest tower in Europe. Only the structure of the architect Eiffel surpassed it in height. In 1944, it was destroyed by the Danish Nazis, cutting down its tourism potential. After the war, it was decided not to restore the Odin tower, but a model was put in its place.

"Funen Village"

Not far from the city is the open-air museum "Funskaya Derevnya". There are collected real rural houses of the XIX century, furnished in the spirit of that time. Local history buffs have taken care of a detailed reconstruction of village life, so in the skansen you can see a farmer working in the field and a blacksmith forging iron, and also enjoy the taste of only brewed beer, made using the same technology as a century ago.

The atmosphere of all this is given by flowering gardens, horse carts with riders in historical costumes, ducks, chickens, goats and other domestic animals walking in the yards.

Odense(dates. Odense) - the third largest city in Denmark, the capital of the island of Funen. Located on the Odense River, close to the Odense Fjord. The city can be reached by the Odense train station on the Copenhagen - Jutland line. In 1796-1806 a canal (7.5 m deep) was dug, which connects the city with the fjord, and in 1998 the famous bridge between the islands of Zealand and Funen was built, which is used for rail and road connections. This bridge is the third longest suspension bridge in the world and the longest in Europe. Now you can drive from Copenhagen to Odense in just 1 hour 15 minutes.

CITY `S HISTORY

Odense (translated as “sanctuary of Odin”) in 1988 celebrated its Millennium. The tomb of St. Knud (also known as St. Canute), in the Middle Ages it was a place of mass pilgrimage for believers. In the 16th century, the city served as a meeting place for parliaments, and until 1805 it was the office of the provincial assembly of Fun.Before World War II, the most famous landmark in Odense is Odinstårnet (Odin's Tower), built in 1935. It was the second tallest tower in Europe, after Eiffel tower... A group of Danish Nazis blew it up in 1944, after which the tower was not restored (only a miniature model was created in its place).The most important event in the history of the city is that on April 2, 1805, the world famous writer Hans Christian Andersen was born here.

THE CITY'S ATTRACTIONS.

Hans-Christian Andersen Museum

The museum is located in the house where the famous storyteller was born. The opening of the museum took place in the year of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the writer, in 1908. The entire furnishings of the house are preserved in the form when the family lived in several rooms of the house. Nowadays, not far from the house, a modern museum of Hans-Christian Andersen is open. This is a large center dedicated to the life and work of the writer. The exposition of the museum: his drawings, manuscripts, books. Visitors get to know Andersen as a person, with all his habits and preferences. A large place in the center is reserved for small visitors: in outdoor games they get to know the writer's fairy tales, draw and plunge into the magical world of the storyteller. There is a shop in the museum where you can buy souvenirs, books dedicated to the life and work of the writer, as well as Andersen's works in several languages.

Andersen House Museum

The small house where the writer lived with his parents, aged 2 to 14. The museum was opened in 1930. The house has preserved the modest furnishings of the rooms and things that reflect the childhood of the writer.

Charity school

A charity school (Fattigskole) is located at the corner of Paaskestræde and Adelgade streets. It was here that the famous storyteller H. Andersen studied. The building was built in 1570.

At the end of his reign, King Frederick IV ordered to rebuild and improve the provincial castles of the kingdom, including the Odense castle. In 1720, a plan for the reconstruction of the castle was developed, which was implemented by the architect J.C. Krieger. The building was reconstructed in the Dutch Baroque style. The main central part of the castle was built and merged with the existing parts. The upper floor housed the royal apartments: the west wing - the king's suite, the east wing - the queen's suite, which was divided by a large dining room and a reception hall. On the ground floor there are apartments for the family of the heir to the Danish throne. The central hall of this floor was the waiting room for an audience with the royals. The material for the reconstruction of the castle was the preserved parts of the destroyed Nyborg castle, which was badly damaged during the war with Sweden. A classic French garden was laid out around the castle. The reconstruction was completed in 1730. Despite his illness, Frederick IV expressed a desire to see the renovated castle. I arrived in Odense and in the early October morning left our mortal world sitting in an armchair in the new bedroom of the castle. Nowadays, the castle houses the Odense city council and you can only see the castle from the outside.

Monastery of noble maidens.

In 1716, Karen Brahe founded a monastery for unmarried women of the Danish nobility. The monastery functioned in this capacity until 1972. The main building was built at the beginning of the 16th century as part of the episcopal palace along the river. The building has high vaulted ceilings and large windows overlooking the courtyard. The interiors of the building are well preserved.

Town hall

The town hall was built in the 80s of the XIX century in the Italian Gothic style by architects Herholdt and Lendorf. It was erected on the same site where the building was located for over 400 years. old Town Hall Odense. From 1937 to 1955, the Town Hall was under constant reconstruction. Its opening took place on 2 April in the year of the 150th anniversary of the birth of Hans Christian Andersen.

Old Railway Station.

The building of the old railway station functioned from 1914 until the end of the 1990s. A feature of the building's architecture is the signs of Neo-Baroque architecture. Architect Genrih Wenck is said to have been inspired by the architecture of the main façade of Odense Castle.

Kramboden (old shop)

Kramboden is located in an old merchant's house from the 15th century. As in times past, the Kramboden is a real treasure chest made of small items. The range of goods covers essential goods from Danish daily life, whether they are antiques, old stocks or good quality copies.

1796 - the year of the founding of the theater in Odense. In 1914 a theater building was built in the city. It was the main theater in the province of Funen. Its repertoire includes performances of national and foreign classics and contemporary art, as well as the organization of performances for children and youth, musicals and dance performances. Recently, the Royal Danish Ballet has established a branch of the Dance Academy at the Odense Theater.

CITY MUSEUMS

An unforgettable journey into the animal world awaits you. The zoo features more than 2000 animals from all over the world. There are: elegant giraffes, African antelopes, lions, beautiful Siberian tigers, macaque monkeys, camels and lazy red pandas, tapirs and giant manatees, penguins. The zoo also has playgrounds for children, restaurants and cafes.

Funen Village
This is an open-air museum: rural buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum fully recreates the atmosphere of that period: timber-brick houses, fences, buildings for keeping animals, a village pond and even entire streets. The whole village is surrounded by agricultural land. The picture of the life of the villagers in the middle of the 19th century is completely recreated here. Also, events related to the celebration of traditional rural holidays are held here. This museum will leave an unforgettable impression on tourists who have been crippled by folklore and history.

Vikingmuseum Ladby

This museum presents the Viking Age grave ship in which King Ladby is buried. Around 925 AD, King Ladby was buried in his ship, which was 21.5 meters long and 3 meters wide. A Kurgan was erected over the ship. Together with the king, his favorite animals were buried: 11 horses and 4 dogs. In the bow of the vessel there is an original anchor and an anchor chain. Unfortunately, the grave was plundered back in the time of the Vikings, so the body of the deceased was taken out by their ship, and some things from the burial were destroyed. The exposition of the museum presents some of the things from the burial that have survived to this day. In Kurgan you can see the imprint of the ship, about 2000 rivets that connected its boards, the shroud of the ring for the rigging of the mast. In the bow of the mound there is an original anchor with a chain and 11 horse skeletons. A little about the history of the museum: the remains of a burial ship were found here in 1935 by an amateur archaeologist Poul Helweg Mikkelsen. A concrete dome was erected over the mound. In 2012, the museum celebrated its 75th anniversary.