Blågårds Plads

The square takes its name from a country estate, Blågård (English: Blue Manor), which was established at the site by Christoffer Gabel in the middle of the 17th century on the grounds of a former brickyard.

From 1852 to 1889, Copenhagen's old fortification ring was gradually decommissioned and the area began to undergo rapid urbanisation, becoming one of the densest and poorest parts of the city.

The foundry's highly polluting activities posed a severe health hazard and the neighbourhood became known as the Black Square (Danish: Den Sorte Firkant).

Designed by sculptor Kai Nielsen in collaboration with the architect Ivar Bentsen, they depict people plying a trade—a tailor, a cooper, a barber, and a baker etc.—all in the company of a toddler.

With a community centre, a library and several popular cafés, Blågårds Plads is a focal point for the life of the surrounding neighbourhood, which is still known as the Black Square.