Copenhagen Park Uncovers Over 1,000 Historic Graves

Hans Tavsens Park in Nørrebro is undergoing major redevelopment until spring 2028. Visitors and locals should expect ongoing construction work in the area. Archaeologists have now uncovered over 1,000 historic graves beneath the park. The site was once a burial ground for Copenhagen's poorest residents.

It also holds victims of the city's 1853 cholera epidemic. The excavation comes before the park turns into a connected green space. The new park will collect rainwater during extreme cloudbursts. This project will help prevent flooding in nearby streets and basements. Construction work first started in autumn 2025.

Most human remains will go to the University of Copenhagen. Researchers at the Anthropological Laboratory will examine their health. They will also study historic religious and cultural attitudes toward death. Some remains will undergo analysis, while others will be reburied in the park. Copenhagen Museum archaeologist Olivia Persson shared the findings with DR.