Denmark — map and facts

Denmark is the southernmost Nordic country, made up of the Jutland peninsula and hundreds of islands. Its capital is Copenhagen, and the country covers about 43,000 square kilometres with a population of roughly 5.9 million. Denmark uses the Danish krone as its currency.

About Denmark

Denmark is a constitutional monarchy with one of the oldest continuous monarchies in the world. It is known for its high quality of life, strong welfare state and design tradition. The Kingdom of Denmark also includes the self-governing territories of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Danish society is often associated with the concept of hygge, a sense of cosiness and contentment.

Geography and landscape

Denmark's only land border is with Germany to the south, while the rest of the country is surrounded by the North Sea and the Baltic. It consists of the Jutland peninsula and more than four hundred islands, the largest being Zealand and Funen. The landscape is low-lying and gently rolling, with the highest natural point reaching only about 170 metres. The climate is temperate, with mild summers, cool winters and frequent wind. Bridges and tunnels, including the Öresund link to Sweden, connect many of the islands.

History

Denmark was a powerful Viking kingdom whose seafarers raided and settled across Europe. In the Middle Ages it dominated the Nordic region, at times ruling Norway and Sweden under the Kalmar Union. Over the following centuries Denmark lost territory through a series of wars, including the cession of Norway in 1814. The country was occupied by Germany during the Second World War before being liberated in 1945. After the war Denmark developed a comprehensive welfare state and a stable parliamentary democracy. It joined the European Economic Community in 1973.

Economy and currency

Denmark has a high-income, mixed economy with strengths in shipping, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy and agriculture. It is a world leader in wind power and design. The currency is the Danish krone, which is pegged to the euro rather than replaced by it. Copenhagen is the country's main economic and cultural centre.

Culture and language

The official language is Danish, a North Germanic language closely related to Norwegian and Swedish. Denmark has a strong design and architectural tradition, along with a celebrated literary heritage that includes Hans Christian Andersen. Cycling is a central part of daily life, particularly in Copenhagen. The Danish concept of hygge, emphasising warmth and togetherness, has become known around the world.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Denmark? The capital of Denmark is Copenhagen, located on the island of Zealand. It is the largest city and the political, economic and cultural centre of Denmark.

What currency is used in Denmark? Denmark uses the Danish krone. Although Denmark is a member of the European Union, it has kept its own currency, which is pegged to the euro.

Does Denmark include Greenland? Yes, Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, as are the Faroe Islands. Both have extensive autonomy over their own internal affairs.