freetown Christiania

Dear Sheddists,

Christianshavn has a different feel to it, warmer more peaceful - a little island of tranquility just across the harbour from the main city area.

And Freetown Christiania  has an entirely different feel again! It's home to one of the most famous alternative communities in the world.

The former military barracks have been occupied since 1971 after they were abandoned by the forces. They now house some 850 inhabitants on an 84 acre site.

Despite a recent temporary closure following a shooting incident, the cannabis traders continue to ply their wares openly on Pusher Street, the main thoroughfare through Christiania. Elsewhere there are cafes, artistic venues and a host of eco-friendly self-build homes. 

We take a brief look around and head back out again through the graffiti-garlanded entrance.

Best regards,

electrofried(mr)

a breath-taking view across Copenhagen

 Dear Sheddists,

we first catch sight of Vor Frelsers Kirke during our boat-trip around Copenhagen's canals, its twisting helter-skelter tower glittering in the afternoon sun.

We return two days later on foot, crossing over the pedestrian bridge from Nyhavn to Christianhavn island.  We lose sight of the tower amid the surrounding apartments for just a moment until its imposing form heaves into view. A challenge lies ahead!

There are some four hundred steps leading to the huge golden orb which tops off the tower. The climb begins inside, the flights of wooden steps gradually getting steeper and steeper as we progress.

At two or three points along the way there's access to partially opened floors that house a set of bells and a series of bizarrely-lit modern-art installations. These include Copenhagen's more romantic version of the infamous Tracy Emin bed.

At last the steps emerge onto a parapet almost at the summit of the tower. We pull ourselves blinking into the light and I stop here to take some photos whilst my brave wife decides to press on ahead alone. She follows an external staircase clad in brass railings as it twists four times round the spire to the enormous golden globe which crowns the very top of the church.

Photos taken I make my way down gingerly from the parapet, not wishing to sample the ultimate view of Copenhagen for fear a passing breeze may carry off the stair-well!

Best regards,

electrofried(mr)

 The walk through Nyhavn to Christianhavn island

Inside the tower

Views from the parapet

 View from across the harbour