Bookseller Chr. Andersen

Step into the Bookshop, where the staff are ready to talk about and advise you on the specially selected goods on display

The Bookshop, which resembles a store from 1927, stocks reprinted editions of older Danish classics which deserve a place in every Danish home. Leaf through and smell the books, which also include Den Gamle By’s own publications and books by Hans Christian Andersen, or try writing with a pen dipped in an ink-well, as they did years ago.

Please note that until March 23, historical shops are only open on select days.

The story behind the Chr. Andersen Bookshop

The bookshop’s interior dates back to 1906, when it was made for H. Chr. Andersen’s shop in Rødding, Southern Jutland. The furnishings were reassembled in Den Gamle By in 1989. The shop also features a cash register from 1909, which originally stood in Vilh. Hansen’s bookshop on Bruunsgade in Aarhus.

The history of bookshops

During the 19th century, improved schooling in Denmark led to better reading skills among the population. This development created a growing need for bookshops. At the same time, books became more affordable thanks to new printing techniques. In addition to selling books to eager readers, printers also began producing paper goods such as cut-out sheets and writing pads, which were sold in bookshops too. By the second half of the 19th century, bookshops had become a well-established part of urban retail.

Opening hours

Open every day from 1 April.

Historical shops