Thorvaldsens Museum, Copenhagen

The Thorvaldsen Museum in Copenhagen is solely dedicated to the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, who was prominent in the Neoclassical style. Thorvaldsen spent most of his life in Rome, where he created his art. Situated on the small island of Slotsholmen near Christiansborg Palace, the museum's architecture, designed by Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll and constructed between 1838 and 1848, draws heavily from ancient Greek styles.

The building surrounds an inner courtyard where the artist is buried, featuring Egyptian-themed paintings depicting palm trees, lions, crocodiles, and exotic flora. The exterior design combines elements from Attic Greek, Pompeian, and Egyptian architecture, particularly evident in the large trapezoidal doors. The museum stands out for its colorful aesthetics, both inside and out, with each room boasting unique grotesque-style ceiling decorations. Outside, a frieze by Jørgen Sonne illustrates Thorvaldsen's return from Rome in 1838.

Inside, the museum showcases Thorvaldsen's works in marble and plaster, including original plaster models used for casting bronze and marble sculptures. These works are now exhibited worldwide in museums, churches, and other locations. Additionally, the museum displays paintings, as well as Greek, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts collected by Thorvaldsen during his lifetime. Personal belongings used by the artist in his daily life and work are also on view, offering insight into his creative process and lifestyle.

Why You Should Visit:
To be taken back to the classical XIX Century museums.
All the works of Thorvaldsen are masterpieces that tell you stories of gods, adventures, and other Greek and Roman myths.

Tip:
Come on a Wednesday as it is free to enter on that day each week.
Don't forget to look up and down as you walk through the galleries.
Get the audio guide which is organized well, and you have options to delve deeper as needed.