Beneath Søndermarken park in Frederiksberg, Cisternerne is a former water reservoir turned into an underground exhibition space. Descend into dark, cool chambers where arches, damp air and occasional water underfoot shape the experience as much as the contemporary art. Exhibitions change, with installations designed to engage with the site’s unusual architecture and atmosphere. Walkways above water add another layer to the visit. Allow about an hour to explore, and bring warm clothing, even on a hot day.
A reservoir beneath Søndermarken
Cisternerne lies below Søndermarken park in Frederiksberg, across from Frederiksberg Palace. The underground chambers once formed part of Copenhagen’s water supply. The reservoir has since been repurposed as an exhibition space, where the scale and conditions of the former cistern remain part of the visit.
A glass entrance marks the way down from the park. Below ground, the chambers are dim, cool and damp, with arches and natural formations that give the space a cave-like feel. There is little natural light, and water can be present on the floor.
Art shaped by the setting
Cisternerne hosts changing contemporary art exhibitions, with works created to interact with the architecture and atmosphere of the chambers. Installations can combine visual art, sound and moving image. The particular exhibition changes, so the experience depends on what is showing during your visit.
The underground setting affects how you encounter the art: suspended walkways pass above water, while darkness and the acoustics make the chambers feel far removed from a conventional gallery. Take time to move through the space and see how the installation sits within the vaulted rooms.
Planning your visit
Allow around an hour to make your way through an exhibition. The temperature underground stays cool, so bring a warm layer; jackets are available to borrow. The floor may be wet, making practical footwear a good choice.
Keep children close on the walkways, which do not have safety rails. The venue recommends getting tickets in advance. Cisternerne is part of Frederiksberg Museums, and a Copenhagen Card may be useful if you are also visiting other attractions covered by the card.
Perguntas frequentes
How long does a visit to Cisternerne take?
Allow about an hour to explore the exhibition and underground chambers.
Is Cisternerne cold inside?
Yes. The underground space is chilly, so bring warm clothing. Jackets are available to borrow.
Should I book Cisternerne tickets in advance?
The venue recommends getting tickets in advance.
Is Cisternerne suitable for young children?
Families can visit, but keep young children close on the walkways above water, which have no safety rails.
