Teddy Venlig - On of the Six forgotten giants and Copenhagen trolls

Six Forgotten Giants and Six Copenhagen Trolls

Written ByAgalya Published on Updated on
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Looking for a unique, family-friendly activity in Copenhagen? Explore the six forgotten giants and six Copenhagen trolls!

Created by the Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the impressive wooden artworks are hidden in different locations, tucked away in nature, offering a chance to explore the outdoors as you search for them.

Each sculpture is crafted from scrap wood and recycled materials, showcasing sustainability in a creative way. Local volunteers help bring them to life. They all have distinct characteristics and even their own names.

As someone who loves outdoor exploration, I explored all the six forgotten giants in the first few weeks of moving to the country. I loved every bit of this unique treasure hunt experience.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Six Forgotten Giants and six Copenhagen Trolls—where to find them and how to enjoy this adventure!

In This Post:

Six Forgotten Giants Map

Six Copenhagen Trolls Map

The Six Forgotten Giants, Copenhagen

Six Forgotten Giants is a 2016 project named by Thomas Dambo.

While it might be tempting to start with the closest giant, I followed the route below and found it to be the shortest. It is the most efficient path to visit all the giants in a single day. However, you can also do it in the reverse order or alter it—it is totally up to you. 

1. Sleeping Louis

Sovende Louis or Sleeping Louis, is a sculpture. It’s peacefully resting on a small hill and the coolest part? You can actually step inside its open mouth and take a nap!

The sculpture is named after Thomas’s old assistant from Bristol, England, as a tribute to his hard work and dedication in helping bring this piece to life.

Sleeping Louis forgotten giant

It’s super easy to get to—just a short walk from the nearest bus stop and Brøndbyøster train station. If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot nearby, making it the best place to start your treasure hunt.

2. Hilltop Trine

As the name suggests, Bakketop Trine or Hilltop Trine, rests on a hilltop in Hvidovre, overlooking the beautiful Avedøresletten. 

Hilltop Trine forgotten giant

The view from the hill is even better when you climb into her open palms and take it all in. Trine is named after one of the volunteers.

3. Oscar Under The Bridge

Oscar is made entirely from scrap wood from a torn-down watermill and broken pallets from local industries. He is a stunning piece of art hanging under the bridge by the lake.

Oscar under the bridge forgotten giant

Oscar Under Broen is named after an artist from Chile who played a key role in building the sculpture.

Tip: You can also visit the Arken Museum of Modern Art near the Thomas Dambo Giant, Oscar.

4. Little Tilde

Named after one of the volunteers, Little Tilde is found peeking at the small lake through the trees. Thomas also made 28 birdhouses inside the sculpture providing shelter for birds and squirrels.

Little Tilde Forgotten Giant

You will find a small cable ferry from Little Tilde that enables you to pull yourself across the Tueholmsøen stream. Do it to reach the next sculpture, Thomas on the Mountain, on the other side.

5. Thomas on the Mountain

Thomas På Bjerget or Thomas on the Mountain is a friendly giant perched on a mountaintop, offering an amazing view of Albertslund municipality. His long legs make an ideal spot to sit and relax with friends or loved ones.

Thomas on the mountain forgotten giant

The giant is named after Thomas’s intern, also named Thomas, as a tribute to the incredible role he played in bringing the entire Six Forgotten Giants project to life.

6. Friendly Teddy or Teddy Venlig

Teddy is a helpful giant who extends his hands to help people cross the stream. The sculpture was brought to life through the combined efforts of four unemployed volunteers and a teacher. 

Friendly Teddy forgotten giant

It’s named after Teddy, the teacher, to honor his friendly and hardworking nature.

Did you know? Thomas Dambo has created more than 150 trolls/giants across 20 countries in 5 continents and counting. He has scavenged over 250 tons of scrap wood.

Six Copenhagen Trolls

Six trolls are spread across Copenhagen, offering a fun and adventurous way to explore the city.

You can visit them in the order below or reverse it—it’s up to you! Either way, you’ll cover about 33.7 km while discovering the Dambo trolls in the city.

1. Bjarke Cirkelsten

Bjarke Cirkelsten is part of the Trail of a 1000 trolls – the Trolliefolkyfest project and is located in the Dragør area of Copenhagen.

Bjarke Cirkelsten Copenhagen troll

Nestled on the city’s outskirts, it is a perfect picnic spot. In a serene clearing surrounded by trees, a kneeling Bjarke Cirkelsten appears to pour stones with his hands, creating an impressive circle of large rocks.

2. Lange Liv

Lange Liv, meaning “Long Life,” is one of Thomas Dambo’s trolls, located on Skrædderholmen Island in Dragør, about 10 km from the city center. Hidden under the highway bridge, Lange Liv sits in a relaxing pose, enjoying serene views of the sea.

Just follow Google Maps, and you’ll find your way to this unique troll and its stunning surroundings!

3. Sanka Suttetrold 

Sanka, the world’s happiest troll, can be found inside the Bondegården park, lying right in the middle of a playground.

The story goes that Sanka loved pacifiers—he’d eat them all day long! Children would bring him all kinds of pacifiers, from teddy bear ones to small ones. But Sanka didn’t love the sounds of crying when he ate the pacifiers. So, being clever, he wrote a little song for the kids to sing while offering their pacifiers to him.

Today, fencing around Sanka reminds visitors not to disturb him, letting him rest peacefully. It’s a fun stop with a whimsical story!

4. Green George

Located in the Freetown Christiana, Green George was built with the trashwood from Christianshavn garbage disposal. The mural behind the sculpture is done in collaboration with Rasmus Balstrøm.

Green George Thomas Dambo Copenhagen troll in Christiania

5. Lomme Ulrik

Located inside the Nørrebro library, Urlik is a traveling troll collecting Lommeuld/ pocket wool for making the ultimate recycled sweater.

Nørrebro library is open to everyone, regardless of residency or nationality. Visitors are welcome to use the facilities during the opening hours without registration. However, to borrow materials or access certain services, you need a Danish Civil Registration (CPR) number and a health card (Sundhedskort).

6. Kaptajn Nalle

Kaptajn Nalle, one of Thomas Dambo’s trolls, is part of the Trail of a 1000 trolls – the Trolliefolkyfest project and can be found in the Nordhavn area of Copenhagen.

Nalle is located inside a fenced area, pulling a graffiti-covered boat with a rope. To see him up close, you’ll need to cross the fence, and don’t worry—you’ll find the path to him easily from this location.

More details and the map of the Trolliefolkyfest Trolls project can be found in his book Den Kæmpestore Troldefolkefest. If you love his project you can contribute or buy the book to support him.

How to find the Six Forgotten Giants?

On Foot/ Cycle

As a hiking enthusiast, I explored the six forgotten giants on foot over a weekend—it was an amazing experience. It feels like a treasure hunt as you go searching for these hidden sculptures, all while enjoying Denmark’s beautiful natural landscapes.

The full trail covers about 28 km from start to finish, so it’s perfect for those who enjoy a challenge.

The hiking and cycling trails are the same and are economical ways to explore, but they require time and a fair amount of physical effort. If you have the time and energy, it’s a rewarding adventure.

Along the way, you’ll meet people walking their dogs and see children light up with excitement when they spot the giants.

Before heading out, check the weather and wear appropriate clothes. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for covering long distances.

By Car

Even if you choose to explore the wooden giants from Copenhagen by car, some walking would still be required from the parking lot to the sculptures.

Keep in mind that each sculpture doesn’t have its own parking area, so you’ll need to find nearby public parking. Most parking spaces are free for a couple of hours.

You can either rent a car or join a group tour. While this option is more expensive compared to biking or walking, it’s a convenient way to cover the distance between the giants, especially if you’re short on time.

By Public Transport

While public transport is convenient and better than hiking all the way, bus and train stations aren’t located right next to the giants. You’ll need to walk a fair distance from the station to reach each sculpture.

It’s a mix of public transport and walking that helps you explore the hidden gems of Copenhagen!

Use Rejseplannen (Android, IOS) or the DOT Tickets app (Android, IOS) to find the best transport options for your journey. Google Maps also works well for planing the routes.

Did You Know? Thomas Damro has done about 111 projects in Denmark alone since 2009, including the Six Forgotten Giants project.

How to Find the Trolls in Copenhagen?

The Copenhagen trolls are located within the city and are well-connected by public transport, making them much easier to access.

Unlike the Six Giants, these trolls require less walking from public transport stops to their locations. Cycling is the best transportation option to explore the trolls in the city.

However, if you plan to explore entirely on foot, you’ll cover about 33.7 km to see all the trolls. If you skip the two trolls in Dragør, the distance comes down to 14 Km. It’s a manageable and enjoyable distance for those who love walking and exploring the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you visit all the six giants in one day?

Yes. You can visit all six wooden giants in a single day if you explore by car or bicycle, as the total distance is about 28 km. However, walking to all six in one day can be exhausting. It’s best to split the adventure over two days, perhaps during a weekend, so you can fully enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Are there only six forgotten giants?

No. As of 2024, he has crafted 153 giant troll sculptures across 20 countries, with 43 of them located in Denmark.

Are there any entry charges for visiting the Thomas Dambo trolls or giants?

The giants are completely free to visit! There’s no entrance fee required, so you can explore all of them without spending a penny.

Can I visit the Six Forgotten Giants anytime? 

Yes. The Six Forgotten Giants are outdoor sculptures situated in natural settings in Copenhagen city. You can visit them any time as there are no specific opening hours. However, some of Thomas Dambo’s trolls are located in places with restricted access. For example, trolls inside libraries or other facilities will be accessible only during the venue’s operating hours.

When is the best time to explore the Six Forgotten Giants of Thomas Dambo?

Any sunny day is perfect for exploring the giants, as it makes the adventure more enjoyable. If the weather isn’t ideal, take the necessary precautions—wear appropriate clothing and pack a waterproof jacket.

Can you visit all the Copenhagen trolls in one day?

If you’re on foot, you can explore four Copenhagen trolls, skipping the two trolls in Dragør. Cycling, driving, or public transportation allows you to visit all the Copenhagen trolls comfortably within a day.

Final Thoughts: Six Forgotten Giants and Six Copenhagen Trolls

Finding Thomas Dambo’s Six Forgotten Giants and Copenhagen Trolls is a fun activity for all age groups. It is a perfect activity for families and friends to go beyond the usual tourist sights while enjoying Denmark’s natural beauty.

It is an adventure that combines creativity, sustainability, and the beauty of nature. Are you ready to find all the twelve wooden giants in Copenhagen?

Grab your map, lace up your hiking shoes, and set out to uncover these stunning art creations.

Happy exploring!

Denmark Travel Checklist

Agalya is the author and founder of Your Denmark Guide, a blog dedicated to help travelers explore Denmark efficiently. She is also a travel blogger and founder at TwinsOnToes. When she's not writing, you can find her discovering the country’s lesser-known gems. With her deep love for travel and passion for Denmark, you can trust her to guide you through your own Danish adventure.

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