Cisternerne in Copenhagen

The Cisterns are the long forgotten water reservoirs deep under the streets of Copenhagen, that once upon a time,  supplied the Danish capital with drinking water, and could hold as much as 16 million litres of clean water. The Cisterns were supplying Copenhagen for more than 70 years but were finally drained in 1981. In 1996 – where Copenhagen was the European city of culture, – the underground water reservoir was put to use as an exhibition space. The Cisterns are used today to host art exhibitions and other events, where the stunning architecture takes centre stage. The Cisterns are the only dripstone caves in Denmark and they are located in the area of Frederiksberg, under the park ‘Søndermarken’ directly opposite the Copenhagen Zoo.

 I had seen many of my favourite Instagrammers posting stunning pictures from the Cisterns, so I knew I had to ‘drag’ the girls with me, so we could see it with our own eyes. When you enter the caves, the damp smell, and the humidity hits you as your eyes adjust. The entrance was candlelit, giving the place a stunning but ghostly look. It reminded me of ancient castles and parties from the olden days. The further you got in, the wetter, and darker it became.

Thank you to Cisternerne for having us. Find them here Søndermarken, 2000 Frederiksberg – look for the signs!!

Photography – Anya Jensen    ©