In 1167 Copenhagen was a tiny village called “Havn”, king Valdemar I gave to his trustee, the bishop of Absalon of Roskilde. Since then it gradually grew to be the first city of Denmark, also because the harbour of Roskilde became inaccessible to the larger trading ships. In 1417 Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark. It’s now by far the largest and most important town in Denmark, with numerous Museums and the hippest Nightlife in the country.
It has an old center and some interesting town development schemes of the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Not just the royal palaces are a sight to see; just as remarkable is the squatters quarter Christiania. Of course one should visit Copenhagens idol, the little mermaid statue near the Churchillpark. As most objects you already know from countless pictures it’s rather disappointing and not nearly as impressive as the Gefion fountain. But these are things one should experience oneself.
