The Old Stock Exchange (Børsen)

The Old Stock Exchange (Børsen)

Børsgade 1

1217 København K

Phone: 33 74 60 00

Photo: Thomas Høyrup Christensen

Børsen_Thomas Høyrup Christensen

Topped with four entwined dragon tails, The Old Stock Exchange dates back to 1625 and is one of the oldest buildings in Copenhagen. A key sight on the city’s skyline, it also has a mysterious legend. 

King Christian IV had realized the importance of increased trade and commerce, and so he had this grand building erected. At that time, the building had room for at least 40 market stalls. The Old Stock Exchange was then surrounded by water from three sides, so ships could unload their cargo directly at the wharf in front.

Making cannon balls from the roof

The Old Stock Exchange was built in Dutch Renaissance style. King Christian IV had originally covered the roof with lead, but during the Swedish occupation of Copenhagen 1658-59, much of this lead was removed to produce cannon balls, and the holes in the roof were only partly covered with tin and tile.

At the end of the 19th century was the building roofed with copper, as you see it today.

The four intertwined dragon tails of the dragon spire are topped by three crowns, symbolizing the Scandinavian empire – Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

The legend of the spire

According to legend, the dragon-tailed spire guards the building against enemy attacks and fires. Is it true? Well, surprisingly, the Old Stock Exchange has many times been mysteriously spared from damage when fires have broken out in neighbouring buildings.

Christiansborg Palace (the present day Danish Parliament) has burnt down on several occasions, and even recently in 1990, a fire broke out in the Proviantgaarden in Slotsholmsgade (Slotholm Street). On this occasion, as before, the Old Stock Exchange survived unscathed.

Today the Old Stock Exchange are used for gala dinners, conferences, parties and other events and is not open to the public. 

Hotels nearby of The Old Stock Exchange (Børsen)

  • Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel

    1.36 km

    If you want to be centrally located in inner Copenhagen, you can safely choose to stay overnight at Hotel Astoria. Here you only have a few minutes' walk to Tivoli, delicious restaurants, cafes, Strøget and more fantastic city options.
    Read more : Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Absalon Hotel

    1.42 km

    Absalon Hotel is a unique, modern yet classic hotel in central Copenhagen. The wonderful bedrooms are furnished with collections from the international home and lifestyle company Designers Guild. Relax and plan your day in the comfortable lobby lounge, and enjoy a refreshment. Walled garden with miniature golf.
    Read more : Absalon Hotel
  • Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel

    1.52 km

    Centrally located in the city center, this Copenhagen hotel is minutes from the beautiful Tivoli Gardens and 'Stroget', Europe's longest pedestrian street.
    Read more : Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Park Globetrotter Airport Hotel - SDH Partner Hotel

    6.58 km

    Park Globetrotter Copenhagen Airport - SDH Partner Hotel presents a comfortable accommodation option for both business travelers and leisure travelers, located near Copenhagen Airport and Amager Strand. Experience modern facilities, welcoming service, and easy access to public transport, just a few minutes walk from the hotel.

    Read more : Park Globetrotter Airport Hotel - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Skovshoved Hotel

    9.32 km

    The beautiful seaside hotel, one of the world’s hippest, according to Condé Nast Traveler, is loved by guests from all over the globe. They come, not only to enjoy the beautiful location and the stunning views of the Sound, but also for the exquisite food.

    Read more : Skovshoved Hotel
  • Taastrup Park Hotel

    17.96 km

    Taastrup Park Hotel is situated centrally between Roskilde and Copenhagen, not far from the motorway. The hotel has its own free car park and is located just a two-minute walk from Taastrup Station, restaurants and shops. The comfortable rooms and delicious breakfast buffet keep our guests coming back again and again.
    Read more : Taastrup Park Hotel
  • Skjalm Hvide Hotel

    31.39 km

    Skjalm Hvide Hotel is close to sights and attractions of both Copenhagen and northern Zealand. The hotel is an ideal starting point for day trips and wonderful excursions. The beautifully appointed hotel with its newly and tastefully refurbished rooms is perfect for relaxation and recharging your batteries.

    Read more : Skjalm Hvide Hotel
  • Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel

    32.69 km

    Magnificent forests, lakes and sports routes surround you here. The city and nature have inspired the hotel. A small village has been created here with winding avenues, green plants and sunshine. The rooms are suitable for families, business or couples on holiday.
    Read more : Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Marienlyst Strandhotel

    41.13 km

    The internationally known Beach Hotel Marienlyst of Elsinore was built in 1901 at the waterfront as a part of the former baths “Cuur og Badeanstalt” of Marienlyst Castle. There are restaurant and bars, lounge, casino and large terraces overlooking the Sound. Close to Castle and the art museum Louisiana.
    Read more : Marienlyst Strandhotel