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Under the Wings of Democracy

    

From the enfranchisement of Danish women in 1908 to the hosting of the European Capital of Culture in 1996 - Copenhagen certainly underwent extensive changes, socially, politically and economically speaking, in less than 100 years. This exhibition tells the story of welfare society's road to victory within the capital. 

A painted frieze, 50 metres in length, depicts the history of Copenhagen

Which of the historical events that took place during the 20th century left the greatest marks on Copenhagen? In finding the answers to this question, you can follow a 50 meter long painted frieze that runs through the exhibition. It depicts the most significant events and construction projects in the history of the city. While some are related to the royal-court, others deal with the everyday life of ordinary people in the street. Ellehammer's motorbike, the twisted remains of Langelinie Pavillonen's copper roof which was blown up during the Occupation, folksinger Cæsar's guitar, souvenirs from Christiania, a so-called "clap" hat from the 1992 UEFA European Football Championship, not to mention a model of the Øresund Bridge,  each artefact symbolises a very special moment in the 21st century's Copenhagen history.

Citizen rights and municipal aid  

The exhibition depicts a century in which democratically elected politicians helped create the modern cityscape and welfare society of contemporary Copenhagen. The most significant shifts took place during the 1920s and '30s and the '60s and '70s, resulting in huge changes of attitude towards working-life and leisure-time. These changes also resulted in significant changes in the relationship between the city council and members of the general public. While poor families were more or less left to fend for themselves during the inter-war period, during the later periods these citizens received the right to assistance from the public authorities.

Neon city lights

The end of the Occupation also marked another important turning-point. Following five years of darkness, the city lights returned with an even more dazzling glow. See the neon signs and cinema posters, and hear the sound of famous radio-programs from the post war period. Other mundane artefacts from 20th century Copenhagen, such as office equipment and signs from the town hall, trade-unions and employers' associations, are also on display in the exhibition. Shop inventory, packaging, street signs, sports equipment, record players, Carmen Curlers, transistor radios and lots, lots more are also on display.

Guided Tours

Experience history come alive and book a guided tour of the exhibition.