Christiania is a unique district of Copenhagen. This alternative community settled in an abandoned military area in 1971. The people who live there have their own set of rules based on fairness, non-violence and sustainability.
It has become very popular with tourists, who love this colourful and vibrant place. There are rules for toursts too ,and this concerns photography. The small businesses and galleries are happy to have their premises photographed with signs saying “Photo OK”. You have to be sensitive about not intruding in their space just as you would anywhere. The main place that it is forbidden to take photos is Pusher Street. This is where there are small stalls set up to sell cannabis. The Copenhagen police tend to leave them alone although it is still illegal elsewhere.
We did not feel threatened at all. It was a happy place with singing and dancing to live music. We found a cafe that was spacious inside, with artwork on the walls and great cakes (they were not hash cakes!) The place was welcoming and clean, with spotless facilities. The goods on sale in the small businesses were mostly locally handmade crafts. Private cars are not allowed and the locals use bicycles to get around. We travelled there by Metro – the nearest station being Christianshavn.
it was an enjoyable experience to visit Christiania and I can see why it is popular with tourists.
