Top 10 Surprising Pieces of Denmark Information You Probably Didn’t Know
Are you a travel enthusiast planning to visit Europe sometime soon? If so, Denmark could be an excellent stopover with tons of surprises waiting to be uncovered. Denmark is famous for its historically rich culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, among other things. In this article, we will give you a heads up on the top ten surprising Denmark information that you probably didn’t know.
1. Bicycles are King
Denmark is renowned for its bicycle-friendly culture, and it’s not just for recreational purposes. In Denmark, the bicycle is king, and it’s people’s preferred mode of transportation for shorter distances. The country features over 12,000 km of bicycle tracks, making it a perfect place to cycle in a refreshing environment with breathtaking views.
2. The Danes are the Tallest People in the World
If you end up visiting Denmark, prepare to meet some of the tallest people globally, with most men towering at an average of 6ft. This feat is said to be due to Denmark’s well-balanced diet with ample amounts of protein.
3. Danish Pastries Aren’t Really Danish
Yes, you read that right. Contrary to common belief, Danish pastries are not originally from Denmark. Danish pastries (also known as Vienna bread) were brought to Denmark by Austrian bakers in the 19th century and were later popularized in Denmark by Danish bakers.
4. Denmark was Once a Superpower
In the 11th century, Denmark was a leading superpower globally and had control of Norway, some of Sweden, and parts of England. But, unfortunately, Denmark attacked England one too many times and lost its foothold.
5. Lego is a Danish Invention
Lego, the popular construction toy, is a Danish invention. The word ‘Lego’ is derived from the Danish words “leg godt,” meaning “play well.” It was started in the 1930s by wooden toymaker Ole Kirk Christiansen. Today, Lego is a multi-billion-dollar company with a wide range of products sold globally.
6. Denmark Has a Flag That Follows Specific Rules
Denmark’s iconic flag (also known as the Dannebrog) is more than just a piece of colorful fabric. It follows specific flag rules, such as when hanging vertically, the white cross must always be towards the hoist (left side of the flag). Denmark’s flag is the oldest in Europe, and the exact year of its origins is still a secret.
7. Hygge is a Danish Way of Life
Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish concept that roughly translates to “coziness” or “togetherness.” It involves creating a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying the simple things in life, like candles, hot beverages, and dim lighting. It’s no wonder Denmark is often ranked as one of the happiest countries globally.
8. Denmark is Home to the Oldest Amusement Park in the World
Dyrehavsbakken, located outside of Copenhagen, is the oldest amusement park in the world, established in 1583. With over 34 rides and attractions, it’s still a popular destination with tourists from all over the world.
9. The Danes are Masters of Windmill Energy
Denmark is a pioneer in environmentally friendly energy, getting over 40% of its electricity from wind turbines. Denmark was among the first countries to transition to wind energy, and its commitment to clean energy has seen the country soar to the top in renewable energy production.
10. Denmark has an Impressive World Heritage Site
Renaissance-style Kronborg Castle in Helsingor, North Zealand, is Denmark’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent castle inspired none other than William Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Denmark has much more to offer than initially meets the eye. From being the tallest people globally to being the creator of Lego, it’s no wonder this beautiful country is a top destination for tourists. Now that you know these surprising facts about Denmark, you can add a few of these points to your list when exploring the country.
