Denmark: land of Vikings

Denmark: land of Vikings

The Word “Denmark” dates back to the Viking age and is carved on the famous Jelling Stone from around 900 AD. Today though Denmark is very different from its historical past. Between the 13th and 17th centuries, Denmark was a superpower whose influence was as powerful as that of the largest European countries. Today, the current size and influence of Denmark is the result of 400 years of forced relinquishments of land, surrenders and lost battles. For a small country though, Denmark still punches above its weight in many different areas including design, architecture, farming, green technology and pharmaceuticals.

The Jelling mounds, runic stones and church were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1994.
The runic text describes how Harald brought Denmark and Norway together and Christianised the Danes.

For starts, let's know quick facts about this country, for example: it population is about 5.627.235 in 2014; it geographic region is Scandinavia; the capital of Denmark is Copenhagen, they speak Danish and their currency is the Danish Kroner (DKK) and that means  1 USD= 5.58 DKK.

Geographically, Denmark is relatively flat with no big mountains to climb, its highest point being no more tan 173 meters above sea level.

How is the lifestyle in Denmark?

 Many think of furniture design and architecture when they think of Danish lifestyle and culture. Yet today, Denmark is perhaps equally famous for food, film and sports. The world’s best restaurant “Noma” has introduced a whole new way of cooking with New Nordic  Cuisine. 

But, what characterises the Dane as a people? Many non- Danes living in Denmark suggest that the Danes are open and welcoming. Others may call them reserved, especially during the long Winter months. For many Danes, the Word “hygge” is essential when describing something uniquely Danish. The Word is best translated into English as “coziness” or “conviviality” and reflects the sense of community and sense of security which comes about when Danes spend quality time with people thay care about.

COPENHAGEN

Copenhagen is Denmark’s charming capital. Walk in fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen’s and philosopher Søren Kierkegaard’s footsteps in Copenhagen, which is the residence of the leading design cities with the Danish Design School, the School of Architecture at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, the Danish National Gallery and the Danish Design Centre, designed by the renowned Danish architect Henning Larsen. In Copenhagen you can also see the celebrated amusement park Tivoli. Int the city districts of Vesterbro and Nørrebro, you can enjoy cosy cafés and good shopping opportunities, and at the Carlsberg Breweries you can simple the world-famous beer.

Fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen

The Royal Danish Playhouse

GO TO DENMARK!

I described just one city in this blog, but there many other interesting cities to visit like Esbjerg, Horsens, Kolding, etc.

One of the many great things about living in Denmark is that wherever you are you are never far from the sea, for a refreshing swim in the summer months or a bracing walk on the beach in the winter months.

Another intersting thing is the Danes like sports – as participants, spectators and in front of the television. Almost two million actively participate in sports as members of an association. Almost two thirds of all children and young people are engaged in organised sports in their leisure time.

There are many other reason for visit Denmark, their culture and traditions, food, history, etc. so why non visit Denmark?