Gefion Fountain

Gefion Fountain

The Gefion Fountain is situated in the northeastern part of central Copenhagen and is composed of a series of bronze statues including the goddess Gefion, four oxen, and a plow. Historical accounts state that the fountain was crafted by Danish sculptor Anders Bundgaard. It was initially intended to be installed in Copenhagen City Hall Square, but due to the presence of an existing bronze dragon sculpture there, the location was changed to its current site in Langelinie Park. The entire bronze structure took approximately ten years to complete and was unveiled in 1908.

Gefion is a goddess in Norse mythology, and the Gefion Fountain was created based on her myth. In the sculpture, the goddess holds a plow in her left hand and a whip in her right, driving four bronze oxen as they strain to plow the field. The four oxen are depicted leaning forward, horns straining, pulling the plow with varying postures and lifelike detail. Steam from the oxen’s nostrils forms a fine mist, while the fountain behind the plow cascades down like a waterfall. The base of the fountain, following the slope of the surrounding pathway, is encircled by a granite pool that collects all the water. On either side of the pool, two large bronze serpents are coiled, with jets of water spraying from both directions directly onto the oxen. The entire structure is grand and majestic, creating a spectacular scene that attracts thousands of tourists every year.