Equestrian statue of King Christian IX

Cast in bronze and set on a tall granite plinth, Christian IX stands prominently in Kongens Have. The king is depicted as calm and upright, while the horse beneath him appears lively and in motion, as if it has just come to a halt. This creates a graceful interplay between strength and elegance — and makes the statue a monument that catches the eye from afar and invites a closer look.

The statue was erected in 1912 following a fundraising campaign among the citizens of Odense and was created by the Odense sculptor Aksel Hansen. It was created to commemorate the close relationship between Christian IX, Queen Louise and the people of the city, after the royal couple had visited Odense several times over the years.

Today, the equestrian statue is more than a monument. It is part of the story of Kongens Have — the historic park that provides a setting for sunny moments, walks and city life in the middle of Odense. The statue forms part of the park’s historic character and is among the sculptures that shape the area today.