Nyhavn 18

Nyhavn 18 is a four-story structure with a yellow facade and traditional red-tiled roof facing the canal in Copenhagen's historic waterfront quarter. The white-framed windows overlook the water, and the building was expanded to accommodate more residents in the middle of the 19th century.

The building was constructed in 1770 as a merchant's residence and gained an additional story around 1846. This expansion reflected the growing demand for housing in Copenhagen's bustling port district during that era.

The building housed Hans Christian Andersen on its first floor, where the writer received visits from Danish nobility and royal figures. Today it remains a tangible link to Copenhagen's literary heritage and the city's artistic circles of the 19th century.

The building is situated directly on the waterfront in Nyhavn's harbor quarter, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and other historic structures. Visitors can explore the area on foot and view the facade from the street or from the water.

Jonathan Balling, an early supporter of Hans Christian Andersen, lived in this building and worked for the Royal Greenland Trade Department. His dual connection to Arctic exploration and Copenhagen's cultural world adds an unexpected layer to the structure's history.

Location: Copenhagen Municipality

Inception: 1779

GPS coordinates: 55.67956,12.59025

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00