Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, has a rich history that dates back over 800 years. The city was founded in the 11th century as a fishing village. In the 12th century, Archbishop Absalon fortified the city and even built a castle on Slotsholmen Island around the year 1167, which is considered the starting point of the modern city.During the Middle Ages, Copenhagen grew in importance due to its strategic location at the entrance to the Baltic Sea. The Hanseatic League, a powerful confederation of merchants and cities in northern Europe, helped drive its economic development.In the 15th century, Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark and was an important center during the Kalmar Union (1397-1523), which united Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch. The city also experienced turbulent times, such as during the siege by the Swedish king Charles X Gustav in 1658-59.In the 17th and 18th centuries, Christian IV and Frederick III carried out significant construction and fortification projects that shaped the city. Christian IV, in particular, is remembered for founding many important buildings, including Rosenborg Castle and Our Saviour's Church.The 19th century brought a period of expansion and modernization, including the construction of the University of Copenhagen. In the late 19th and 20th centuries, the city continued to grow and modernize, becoming a cultural and economic hub in the Nordic region.Copenhagen also played a significant role during World War II, when it was occupied by Nazi forces from 1940 to 1945. However, the Danish resistance was active, and the city was eventually liberated in 1945.Today, Copenhagen is renowned for its high quality of life, focus on sustainability and innovation, and for being an important cultural, economic, and political center in Europe. The city is famous for its picturesque canals, vibrant food scene, and for being the home of the iconic Little Mermaid, a statue based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.
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