Despite initial setbacks during the stabilization process, firefighters in Copenhagen continue to work on stabilizing the burned-out Old Stock Exchange building after a large blaze broke out on Tuesday. The fire caused the roof and iconic dragon-tail spire of the 400-year-old landmark to collapse, with a section of the outer wall also collapsing on Thursday. Fortunately, the most valuable paintings and items were saved, and there were no injuries. Structural engineers are assessing the best way to remove remnants of scaffolding that are now precariously dangling from the building, with the possibility of further collapses.
Brian Mikkelsen, head of the Danish Chamber of Commerce that owns the building, stated that 45% of the structure had been saved and reiterated plans to completely rebuild the historic landmark. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited the site to thank the firefighters for their quick response and show support for the rebuilding efforts. While Frederiksen expressed the government’s support for rebuilding, it is too early to determine whether the government will provide financing for the project. The exact source of funding, which could cost millions or even billions of kroner, remains unclear.
The cause of the fire, which started on the building’s roof that was covered in scaffolding for renovation work, is still unknown. Police have yet to enter the burnt part of the building to investigate further. The removal of the scaffolding is crucial to salvage the remaining unharmed portion of the Old Stock Exchange. While firefighters have not specified a timeline for this process, adjacent streets remain closed for traffic. Reconstructing the landmark, known for its Dutch Renaissance architectural style and distinctive dragon-tail shape, will be a time-consuming and costly endeavor.
The Old Stock Exchange sits on the waterfront next to the Danish parliament and holds significant historical and architectural value in Copenhagen. As the plans for reconstruction progress, the focus remains on stabilizing the building and assessing the damages caused by the fire. The restoration of the landmark to its former glory is a priority for both the Danish Chamber of Commerce and the government, with efforts to secure funding for this monumental project already underway. The community looks forward to the eventual reopening of the Old Stock Exchange as a symbol of resilience and preservation of Danish heritage.
