Absalon, Bronze equestrian statue at Højbro Plads, Denmark.
Absalon is a bronze equestrian statue showing a bishop in mail armor and helmet wielding an axe, positioned at Højbro Plads in central Copenhagen. The monument stands where Absalon's original fortress once protected the settlement that would become the city.
Bishop Absalon founded the city's first fortress in the 12th century, giving Copenhagen its strategic position along the strait between Denmark and Sweden. The statue was erected in 1902 to mark the 700th anniversary of his death and celebrate his role in establishing the settlement.
The inscriptions on the granite base honor Absalon's character, while fish carvings symbolize the importance of herring fishing to medieval Copenhagen. These details connect the figure to the city's maritime heritage.
The statue sits in a central location with clear views of the surrounding square and nearby palace, making it easy to spot and photograph. The area is highly walkable with numerous cafés and shops nearby for visitors exploring the historic center.
The red brick pedestal features a coat of arms with crossed Keys of Heaven and a rose cross, marking Absalon's position as Bishop of Roskilde. These heraldic symbols often go unnoticed by visitors but reveal his religious authority alongside his military leadership.
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