Copenhagen's Urban Greenspace

The presence of greenspace in the urban environment is vital to the health and success of a city and its people. Nature in an urban setting allows overwhelming stress relieving benefits due to its innate characteristics and emotions that are felt by humans. Since ancient Egypt, gardens were created in both temples and private residences. The engineering of planning these green spaces allowed for designated areas where people were able to interact with the natural enviornment. Over time, greenspace was introduced in different forms, such as planned medieval orchards and hunting parks found in much of Europe. It wasn't until the parks movement of the 1830s that greenspace was established in urban areas.

Urban greenspace became essential for these cities due to the abundant benefits ranging from natural preservation, improved economy, and increased socialization. Moreover, as cities continued to grow and become increasing concentrated, greenspace would become a haven in the midst of the unsanitary streets of the city.

In Copenhagen, greenspace became introduced gradually over time concurrently with modernization. Originating as a medieval city, urban planners soon found the need to plan more efficiently and expand the city's limits. In 1857, Conrad Seidelin proposed a new urban plan that would remove the city's original fortifications and create new areas for housing and businesses. However, this plan of functionality did not come to fruition. Instead, greenspace became commonplace in urban planning, like that of London or Paris. Henrik August Flint introduced greenspace into the city by converting the fortifications into park space. Today, the parks located on the site of the old fortifications are now some of the most popular and renowned urban parks in the world.

Currently, Copenhagen's urban greenspaces provide residents with a myriad of options. Each of these spaces are unique in their identity and history. For example, the Botanical Gardens in Norreport grant visitors with the option to explore the greenhouse and gain knowledge on botany. Also, the Kastellet provides the country of Denmark a facility to practice military operations, as well as creating a greenspace for recreation and reflection of the past. After visiting these locations, it is easy to notice that each of these places have their own aura and emotional energy. Collectively, these urban greenspaces enhance the city's atmosphere, and enrich our own human experience.

Lejre: A Land of Legends

When we think of the term greenspace, many of us think of parks, forests, and fields. However, the concept of greenspace transcends these traditional limitations in that a greenspace can encompass any type of open land, and can transform over time. A prime example of a greenspace that highlights geographic transformation and anthropogenic activity would be Sagnlandet Lejre in Denmark. Established in 1964, this experimentation centre serves as a unique pocket of historic Danish greenspace, and how historic lifestyles can be portrayed in an authentic setting.

Lejre itself tells a story of the continuous interaction between man and nature. Beginning in 5400 BCE, the Stone Age camp sets the advantageous environment for the ancient Danes. At this time, hunting and gathering was very common due to the vast forest coverage throughout the country. This relationship would soon change along with the climate, forcing humans to adapt to the landscape changes such as rising sea levels and changes in temperature. As a result, nomadic tribes transitioned towards a settlement-style of living for greater convenience. Additional changes included the introduction of agriculture, and increased emphasis on fishing. Decreased land area and, increased waterways encouraged these habitual alterations.  Even though these changes may not have been desired, these adaptations were necessary for survival. 

As with much of Europe, humans have made their mark on the terrain for centuries, challenging the dynamic between the environment and the population till this day. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the Danish history showcased at Lejre presents a unique form of adaptation and sense of respect for nature. This ideology could be related to the practice of assigning spiritual energy to all things. For example, Lejre’s sacrificial bog of the Iron Age testifies this sense of respect for the unique ecosystem qualities of a bog. Another link could be formed between the ancient Danes and the Native Americans of North America. In both cultures, we can observe similarities of survival methods and natural worship. All in all, Lejre allows us to look collectively at Danish culture and its historical relationship with the environment.