The Subterranean Cathedral: Why Cisternerne in Copenhagen Will Take Your Breath Away
- Natalie Tarin
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Forget the colorful charm of Nyhavn for a moment. Forget the gentle hygge of Danish cafes. We’re about to take you deep underground, into a massive, dripping, echoing space that feels less like a museum and more like an otherworldly realm.
Welcome to Cisternerne (The Cisterns Museum).
Located beneath the lush greenery of Søndermarken Park in the Frederiksberg district of Copenhagen, The Cisterns is a former subterranean water reservoir, built between 1856 and 1859. It was a crucial development for the city, intended to provide clean drinking water and combat infections like the Cholera epidemic. For decades, it was a spectacular, open-air reservoir before being covered in 1891 to prevent contamination.
Today, this vast, cold, dark space—capable of holding 16 million liters of water—has been transformed into one of the most unique contemporary art venues on the planet.
The Atmosphere: Art in the Deep
Visiting Cisternerne is a full-sensory experience that fundamentally changes your relationship with the art it hosts.
The Echoing Silence:Â As you descend the stairs, the world above fades. The first thing you notice is the sound. With a 17-second-long echo, every footstep and whisper is amplified, turning the simple act of walking into a dramatic event. The space demands a respectful silence, lending it the feel of an ancient, forgotten tomb or a colossal, underground cathedral.
The Unrelenting Climate: This is not a dry white cube. With near 100% humidity, the atmosphere is heavy and cool. Water continually seeps through the concrete ceiling and pillars, resulting in the astonishing presence of Denmark's only true dripstone cave. Stalactites and stalagmites are slowly forming in this urban cave, a powerful reminder of nature’s quiet, persistent dominance over human construction.
Site-Specific Art: Each year, Cisternerne invites an internationally renowned artist or architect to create a site-specific installation. The art is not just displayed in the space; it is created for the space, reacting to the darkness, the dampness, the echoes, and the silence. It is utterly immersive, forcing you to use all your senses to navigate and interpret the experience.
If you’re seeking a Copenhagen attraction that is genuinely unique, dramatically atmospheric, and completely unforgettable, Cisternerne is a non-negotiable must-see. It’s a journey into the city’s secret history and a meditation on the power of art, water, and time.
Where to Stay: Walkable Sanctuaries Near Cisternerne
After emerging from the echoing depths of the Cisternerne, you'll want a comfortable, welcoming spot nearby. The museum is located near Frederiksberg Gardens in a lovely residential area. Here are five top-rated accommodations on Booking.com that are within a short walk or a very quick, easy trip, catering to various budgets.
Hotel / Accommodation | Approximate Walking Distance to Cisternerne | Approximate Starting Price Range (per night) | Vibe & Features |
Approx. 1.2 km (15-minute walk) | DKK 900 - 1500 (approx. $130 - $220) | Upscale, stylish boutique hotel in the trendy Carlsberg district, known for its sleek design and rooftop area. | |
Approx. 1.5 km (20-minute walk) | DKK 800 - 1300 (approx. $115 - $190) | Modern, mid-range hotel right next to Frederiksberg Gardens and a metro station, offering excellent connectivity. | |
Approx. 2.0 km (25-minute walk) | DKK 500 - 900 (approx. $75 - $130) | Unique 'hub' concept—a budget-friendly, tech-focused hotel offering stylish, private sleeping pods and great communal areas. | |
Approx. 2.5 km (30-minute walk) | DKK 700 - 1200 (approx. $100 - $175) | Charming, established hotel in the vibrant Vesterbro district, offering good value and a classic Copenhagen feel. | |
Approx. 1.8 km (20-minute walk) | DKK 1200 - 2000 (approx. $175 - $290) | Apartment rental in Frederiksberg, perfect for travelers seeking a local, comfortable stay with more space. |
Note: Prices are approximate and will vary significantly based on season, demand, and booking date.
Ready to Go Underground?
From the high energy of General Luna to the quiet, ancient depths of Copenhagen, your next adventure awaits. Don’t miss this incredible subterranean marvel on your next visit to Denmark.
Stop scrolling and start exploring! Find the perfect hotel for your Copenhagen adventure on Booking.com: