Destinations » Denmark Travel Guide

Culture

Folk music, its costumes, and Elf's are an important and colourful part of its history. Denmark's folklore portrays Elf's as beautiful ladies that lived under large rocks or on hills. Costumes date back to the eighteen hundreds, and their colours and styles are dictated by the customs and materials of their region of origin. The opportunity to visit museums, particularly its largest, The National Museum close to the middle of Copenhagen, is a must, as is experiencing the atmosphere of its music festivals including the Jelling Music Festival and the Kloften Festival.

Food and Drink

Pork is a huge part of its history, culture and business. One of its finest and most-loved pork dishes is Frikadelle, which dates back to around 1650. Traditionally it's served with potatoes, preserved sour vegetables and brown sauce. Denmark's moist, cool climate also heavily influences its cuisine and dairy products are one of its specialties. Long, cold winters mean food preservation has always been important, with smoking and pickling the most widely used methods. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks play a big part in the countries traditional and way-of-life. From Mead, made by the Vikings to Gløgg, a hot punch made from red wine, sherry, brandy and fruit. Akvavit and Pilsners are also very popular. Many people start the day with a coffee, whilst parents often serve their children rich, creamy hot chocolate or elderflower cordial

History

Successful English raids in the 11th century led to the formation of an Anglo-Danish kingdom. Denmark reached it most powerful in the early 13th century. But two hundred years later Sweden's increased power and prominence, forcing Denmark to be aggressive and stand its ground. Under the leadership of King Christian, Denmark established itself as a modern nation by 1650. Denmark gave up control of Norway in 1814 and by 1901 Denmark had introduced full parliamentary democracy. After its neutral stance during the World War I, and the end the Second World War Denmark joined NATO.  In 1973 it joined the European Union and has been heavily involved ever since.
Did you know?
Hans Christian Andersen, writer of stories such as The Tinderbox, The Ugly Ducking and Thumbelina, was born in Odense in the year 1805. Copenhagen dock holds a statue of the Little Mermaid, possibly his most famous story.

Facts and Figures

• Copenhagen