Memorial · Copenhagen

Befrielsessten

Photograph at the Befrielsessten Memorial
Photograph: Unknown authorUnknown author, via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

This memorial stone commemorates Denmark's Liberation Day, marking the country's freedom from occupation. The simple yet profound inscription serves as a permanent record of a pivotal moment in Danish history, reflecting the collective memory and gratitude for the return of peace. Placed in Copenhagen, it stands as a focal point for remembrance, allowing present and future generations to acknowledge the significance of May 5, 1945, and the end of a challenging period. It symbolises resilience and national unity, capturing the emotional and historical weight of the day the nation regained its sovereignty.

The Liberation of Denmark on May 5, 1945, signified a profound shift after years of occupation during World War II. For many communities, the urge to formally acknowledge this return to freedom was strong, leading to the creation of various memorials. These stones, often found in public spaces, became tangible expressions of relief and national pride, serving both as historical markers and as gathering points for annual commemorations. They reflect a widespread desire to permanently record the end of the conflict and the re-establishment of Danish independence, ensuring that the sacrifices and the joy of liberation would not be forgotten.

This Liberation Stone is situated in Copenhagen, providing an accessible location for public remembrance and reflection. Visitors can approach the memorial respectfully, observing its simple yet powerful design. As a war memorial, it is intended to be a place of quiet contemplation, allowing individuals to connect with the historical event it commemorates. Its presence in the cityscape ensures it remains an integral part of Copenhagen's public memory, easily found by those wishing to pay their respects or learn more about this significant date in Danish history.

Inscription

“DANMARKS FRIHEDSDAG 5 MAJ 1945”
Transcribed from the Memorial at Copenhagen.

Background

Befrielsessten

Source: OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Geographic data via OpenStreetMap.

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Data sources

Location records are drawn from open, licence-clean datasets, kept here with attribution and gratitude to the people who maintain them.

  • Open Plaques, dedicated to the public domain (CC0). See openplaques.org.
  • Wikidata, available under the CC0 1.0 Universal dedication.
  • © OpenStreetMap contributors, available under the Open Database Licence.
  • Historic England, National Heritage List for England, used under the Open Government Licence v3.0. War memorial records are drawn from open community datasets (OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, NHLE) - never from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which is excluded.

Editorial descriptions, photography and tribute links are original TributeLegacy work, layered on top of the open data.

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