Hidden beneath the tranquil lawns of Søndermarken Park in Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, lies one of Denmark’s most unique and mesmerizing attractions: The Cisterns (Cisternerne). Once the beating heart of Copenhagen’s water supply, The Cisterns have been transformed into a subterranean world of art, nature, and history. This underground reservoir is now a celebrated venue for contemporary art exhibitions and offers visitors a truly otherworldly experience. If you’re searching for unforgettable things to do in Copenhagen, The Cisterns should be at the top of your list for its blend of history, architecture, and immersive cultural encounters.
History of Cisterns
The story of The Cisterns begins in 1856, when construction started to address Copenhagen’s urgent need for clean drinking water. Completed in just three years, the massive underground reservoir could hold up to 16 million liters of water, playing a crucial role in the city’s development and public health. Originally, the reservoir was open to the air, creating a spectacular reflective surface in front of Frederiksberg Palace. To prevent contamination, it was covered with a concrete structure in 1891, and the central fountain and lawns of Søndermarken were established above it.
The Cisterns served the city until 1933, after which they were largely forgotten, only to be drained completely in 1981. In 1996, coinciding with Copenhagen being named the European City of Culture, local visionaries reimagined the space as a cultural venue. It first opened as a museum of modern glass art in 2001, under the stewardship of gallery owner Max Seidenfaden, and later evolved into a contemporary art exhibition space as part of the Frederiksberg Museums.
Attractions at Cisterns
- A Subterranean Dripstone Cave: The Cisterns are not just an architectural marvel-they are Denmark’s only dripstone cave. Over decades, water seeping from Søndermarken Park above has created natural stalactites and stalagmites, a phenomenon rare in concrete structures but spectacularly realized here. These fragile formations add a mystical, almost primeval atmosphere to the vast, echoing chambers.
- Contemporary Art Exhibitions: Each year, The Cisterns hosts a new, site-specific contemporary art installation. Artists are challenged to work with the unique, damp, and dark environment, resulting in exhibitions that engage all the senses. Past installations have featured immersive soundscapes, dramatic lighting, and interactive elements that transform the underground space into a living artwork. Notable exhibitions have included works by internationally acclaimed artists like Chiharu Shiota and Ingvar Cronhammar.
- A Living Piece of History: The Cisterns’ architecture-4,320 square meters divided into three large chambers, with ceilings nearly 4.2 meters high-evokes the feeling of wandering through a cathedral or ancient catacombs. The remnants of water, echoing drips, and shifting light create an ever-changing environment that feels both ancient and futuristic.
Things to Do at Cisterns
Explore the Art Exhibitions: Wander through the current installation, which changes annually, and experience art in a way that’s impossible above ground.
Admire the Dripstone Formations: Observe the natural stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over decades, a testament to the slow but steady power of nature.
Photography: The interplay of darkness, water, and light makes The Cisterns a photographer’s dream-just be mindful of the damp floors.
Join Guided Tours: Occasionally, guided tours are offered, providing deeper insights into the history, geology, and artistic projects within the Cisterns.
Combine with Other Frederiksberg Museums: The Cisterns are part of the Frederiksberg Museums network, so you can purchase a combined ticket to visit several attractions in the area.
Cisterns – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00
Monday: Closed
How Long to Spend at Cisterns
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at The Cisterns, depending on their interest in the current exhibition and their pace of exploration. Those who enjoy photography, art, or geology may wish to linger longer to fully absorb the atmosphere and details.
How to Get There
- By Metro: Take the M1 or M2 line to Frederiksberg Station. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) through the leafy Frederiksberg district.
- By S-Train: Disembark at Valby Station. The Cisterns are a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from the station.
- By Bus: Bus lines 4A, 6A, and 18 stop near Søndermarken Park. The nearest stop is usually Zoologisk Have (Copenhagen Zoo), which is a 5-minute walk to the entrance of The Cisterns.
- By Bicycle: Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities. There are bike racks near the entrance to Søndermarken Park.
- By Taxi or Ride-Share: Taxis can drop you off at the main entrance to Søndermarken Park on Roskildevej.
- By Car: Limited street parking is available around Søndermarken and Frederiksberg Palace. Paid parking zones apply.
- By Boat: While there is no direct boat access, the city’s harbor and canal tours are a great way to see Copenhagen, and you can combine them with a visit to the Cisterns by transferring to public transport.
Eateries Nearby Cisterns
The Frederiksberg area and nearby Valby district are home to several excellent cafés and restaurants:
Café Sokkelund: A classic brasserie offering Danish and French-inspired dishes, just a short walk from Søndermarken.
Granola: A beloved spot for breakfast, brunch, and coffee, located on Værnedamsvej.
Meyers Deli: Known for its organic sandwiches, salads, and pastries, perfect for a light lunch.
Frederiks Have: A cozy neighborhood restaurant with a focus on seasonal Danish cuisine.
Café Lindevang: A relaxed café with a varied menu, ideal for families.
Valby Idrætspark Café: A casual eatery near Valby Park, great for a quick bite.
Other Attractions Nearby Cisterns
Frederiksberg Palace: A stunning baroque palace adjacent to Søndermarken Park, open for guided tours.
Copenhagen Zoo: One of Europe’s oldest zoos, just across the street from The Cisterns.
Frederiksberg Gardens: Expansive landscaped gardens perfect for a stroll or picnic.
Storm P. Museum: Dedicated to Danish humorist and cartoonist Robert Storm Petersen, located close by.
Værnedamsvej: A lively street with boutiques, bakeries, and wine bars, often called “Little Paris” of Copenhagen.
The Cisterns in Copenhagen offer a truly unique experience, transforming ancient underground water reservoirs into an extraordinary art space. Originally built to store drinking water, the cisterns are now a hauntingly beautiful venue where contemporary art exhibitions meet historical architecture. The cool, damp atmosphere enhances the immersive installations and gives visitors a glimpse into both the past and the creative present.
When discussing cisterns and modern water storage solutions, the Vectus tank is often mentioned for its durable design and efficiency, showing how innovations in water storage continue to evolve. Whether you’re exploring artistic interpretations at the cisterns or considering a Vectus tank for your own use, these structures highlight the importance and adaptability of water systems through the ages.