The Freetown Christiania, a society within a society, about a community who wanted to stay and live by their own rules.

The History

Christiania Freetown was founded in 1971 when a group of people cut a hole in the fence to the military barracks in Bådmandsgade in Copenhagen. Soon the area was known as Pusher Street, where you could buy hash and pot – but no hard drugs – from various stalls.

Christiania existed under special conditions for 40 years with constant conflicts and clashes between the local Christianites and the Danish state. This controversial area was and is loved by many, but has been a turning point for strong debate, especially because of the locals' relaxed view on hash and some unfortunate violent incidents.

Christiania today

On 1st of July 2012, a foundation called "The Foundation Freetown Christiania" was founded in agreement with the Danish State. The foundation now owns the entire part of Christiania located outside the protected ramparts and leases buildings and land on the ramparts, which are still owned by the state.

Today Christiania is one of Denmark’s most spectacular tourist attractions. It is still a society within a society, for example, you cannot buy a house in Christiania. You have to apply for it, and if successful, it is given to you. Many of the original settlers still live in the collectively controlled village, and the area has a clear 70´s´ feel to it. Today around 1,000 people live in Christiania, and every year more than 500,000 people come to visit.

A lot of the people living in Christiania built their homes themselves giving the area an extremely interesting architectural feel. You will find a variety of eco-restaurants, workshops, galleries and music venues offering all sorts of cultural experiences.

Safety in Christiania

It is important that you are aware that Christiania is not like any other neighbourhood in Copenhagen to visit. The area can be considered quite rough and dodgy. According to Copenhagen police, the area around Pusher Street is controlled by organised criminal groups.

The residents themselves have adopted a set of rules for security reasons, which they strongly advise visitors to abide by. They discourage visitors to photograph, run and talk on the phone in the area, especially in and around Pusher Street.

At the main entrance, you will find a sign indicating 'do's and don't in the area. We advise you to take them seriously and follow them for your safety. The area is open to the public.

See more: Top Attractions in Copenhagen