Describe the character and uses of the different urban greenspaces created in Copenhagen the 19th century and explored on our Field Study, and the ways in which these parks are relevant and beneficial to 21st century urban living.

By the end of this year, all residents of Copenhagen must have access to a beach or public green space within a 15-minute walking distance. This beneficial and forward-thinking initiative is reflective of a long history of urban greenspaces in Copenhagen. During recent field studies, we were able to explore several parks around the city, each created in the 19^th century, and each still utilized today.

Frederiksberg Park

Although Frederiksberg Park was originally created in conjunction with Frederiksberg Palace in the late 1600s for King Frederik IV, the park’s current form, an English landscape style garden, was designed in the 1800s. The park, at 64 acres, is one of the largest in Copenhagen, and with its meandering paths and highly planned viewing points, gives a feeling of transporting visitors back to another era. The park boasts a wide variety of attractions inspired by different locales around the globe, from a Roman temple to a Chinese summerhouse, giving off a worldly and cultured feel. A large number of water features attracts a variety of birds and other wildlife, adding to the park’s charm. Today, many people utilize the park as a place to run or walk, as well as a gathering place for relaxing in the warmer weather. Additionally, a memorial tree serves as a coming-of-age commemoration, with children’s pacifiers being hung on it once they outgrow them.

http://lovecopenhagen.dk/2014/07/06/look-6-frederiksberg-have-frederiksberg-park/

Ørstedparken

Located near the center of the city, Ørstedparken is a smaller park that was created in the mid-1800s with an extremely natural feel. It is sunken compared to the surrounding streets’ elevations, with trees surround the out limits, and is centered around a large, organic-feeling pond. This park is commonly used as a quick escape from the city, whether for a lunch break or to simply sit and relax. Because of its unique sunken design and large number of trees, the park is surprisingly well insulated from the noise and commotion of the city.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ørstedparken_-_greenery.jpg

Botanical Gardens (KU)

The Botanical Gardens, owned by Københavns Universitet, includes both a large park and a series of historical greenhouses from the 1800s, housing a number of warm-weather and exotic plants. The park is a conveniently located place to run or wander about, and the greenhouses, with their warmth and exotic feel, are popular both for those interested in plants and for people (such as myself on more than one occasion!) trying to escape the cold of winter for some warmer weather, if only for a few moments. The Botanical Gardens boast a huge assortment of plant varieties, and unlike many other gardens of its kind around the world, is entirely free to the public.

http://www.megapixeltravel.com/2012/08/copenhagen-denmark/