Hans Christian Andersen was one of the most famous authors and poets of Denmark. Originally from Odense, Denmark, Andersen spent most of his life in Copenhagen. Once a busy commercial port, this district was known as a hub for sailors, corruption and prostitution. Andersen used to live in Nyhavn 20, the Boel House, from to From to he eventually lived in Nyhavn 67 from where he had a magnificent view over the city. Today, it is especially famous for the wide spiral path that leads to the top of the tower from where you have a magnificent view over Copenhagen but it also hosts many exhibitions and events at the Grand Library Hall.
The Hall once was home to the entire book collection of the university. Andersen not only visited the library frequently but also found inspiration here for his tales. The world-famous statue was created by Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in The tale was first published in as part of a collection of other fairy tales and has been the inspiration for the popular children stories.
The story follows the Little Mermaid who saves the life of a shipwrecked prince. Instead of seeking revenge, the Mermaid throws herself into the sea, awaiting to turn into sea foam. Due to her selfishness she turns into a luminous and ethereal earthbound spirit. The statue is positioned right at the coastline and is one of the most photographed statues in the world, so keep in mind that it tends to get a little crowded around here.
If you want to see the Little Mermaid from an another angle and learn more about her tragic tale, you can alternatively take a boat tour around Copenhagen. Andersen died in his home in Rolighed in and is buried on the cemetery at section P no. Select a setting for your online experience, you can read more about each individual feature by clicking "More information".
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