In the forests and natural areas around Copenhagen in Denmark, there are more than just trees, streams, and wildlife. Here you will find giant wood sculptures “hidden” in different parts of the landscape that make for a magical hike through the wilderness. (1)
Copenhagen’s Giant Wood Sculptures
Danish artist Thomas Dambo wanted to inspire people to adventure further into Copenhangen’s forests so he decided to create an open-air treasure hunt of giant wood sculptures. There are six of them in total throughout the six municipalities of the area. (1)
The giant wood sculptures are found in Rødovre, Hvidovre, Vallensbæk, Ishø, Albertslund, and Høje-Taastrup and take treasure seekers on a tour of the various scenery and biodiversity of the area. (1)
“As humans, we often have a way of choosing the beaten path and the main roads,” Dambo said. “So when the municipalities of west Copenhagen contacted me about a project, it seemed natural to make something which could get people out and explore the beautiful nature in the hidden outskirts, which you usually wouldn’t see.” (1)
Hidden Giant Wood Sculptures
The sculptures aren’t all necessarily out in plain sight. They’re hidden under bridges, camouflaged by trees or brush, and tucked away on hillsides. (1) There are two ways for you to find them (1):
- Via a map provided on Dambo’s website
- Deciphering poems engraved on stones near each giant
Not only do the giants encourage people to explore nature, but they benefit the places that they are in.
Read: Stunning Living Sculpture Changes Its Appearance With The Seasons
From Trash to Treasure
Each sculpture is made of scrap wood left from cut down trees or torn-down buildings that would have otherwise been thrown away. Each one benefits the people visiting them and the natural environment. (1)
Teddy Friendly
This giant wood sculpture sits next to a lake. His outstretched hand and arm are there to help people cross over a small stream. (1)
Sleeping Louis
This sculpture is placed in a spot where the homeless are often found sleeping. Now, Sleeping Louis provides shelter for those who need it so they have a safe place to sleep. (1)
Little Tilde
Hiding behind a tree, Little Tilde is filled with 28 birdhouses, making her a great spot to view some wildlife. (1)
Oscar Under the Bridge
Hiding underneath a bridge, you will first spot Oscar by his hand that is wrapped around the handrail. Take a peek over the edge and you will see this giant wood sculpture looking up at you. (1)
Thomas on the Mountain
Thomas is long-legged and is perched at a spot that offers stunning views of the landscape. (1)
Hill Top Trine
This final giant wood sculpture sits in a meadow and has plenty of spots for visitors to sit with him and watch over the sheep grazing in the pasture nearby. (1)
Giant Wood Sculptures: A Group Effort
Dambo did not make these giant wood sculptures entirely on his own. He had the help of a community of volunteers, each with their own skillset, to construct each giant. He was even able to provide some people with workers who had lost their jobs. (2)
Beyond simply encouraging people to get out into the lesser-known parts of Copenhagen, Dambo also wants to use his project to show people the power of reusing and recycling materials.
“I hope my art will inspire people to see the big potential in recycling and taking better care of our planet,” (2)
If you ever visit Copenhagen, this is a must-do hike.
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