Together with the Municipality of Frederiksberg we have made a development plan for Solbjerg Park Cemetery, located next to Copenhagen Zoo and Søndermarken. The purpose is to transform the area from an inward-focused cemetery into a recreational park with a focus on tranquility and contemplation.

Since 1865, Solbjerg Cemetery has served as a burial ground for the citizens of Frederiksberg. As burial practices evolve, there is no longer the same need for new graves. Therefore, Frederiksberg Municipality invited several architectural firms to participate in a competition to create a development plan that would transform the cemetery for park purposes.

Inviting Park with a Focus on Tranquility and Contemplation

Frederiksberg Municipality has recently approved the development plan for Solbjerg Park Cemetery. The vision is to create a large, green park cemetery that, with respect for gravesites and cemetery areas, provides space for recreation, relaxation, and movement.

Respecting the Existing Qualities of the Area

The transformation from cemetery to recreational park is based on the area’s existing qualities, and the development plan for Solbjerg Park Cemetery is made is close collaboration with the Municipality of Frederiksberg.

 “Solbjerg Park Cemetery is blessed with over 150-year-old, culturally significant trees. They have been preserved in the development plan because, in addition to creating atmosphere and habitats for animals and insects, they also serve as the city’s lungs. The new winding promenade breaks away from the current, rigid structure and guides visitors through the various zones of the area, while also connecting the park with its surroundings. The development plan is a good example of how we can transform we existing areas into new, contemporary functions. In collaboration with Frederiksberg Municipality, we look forward to make the development plan reality in the coming years,”

explains Sune Oslev, CEO of MASU Planning.

Various Zones for Different Purposes

The development plan divides the park cemetery into zones with different atmospheres that grow out of the area’s existing values. As visitors move along the winding path, they will experience a greater variation in light, architecture, landscape values, spaces, and plantings. Along the path, a series of stops are developed to cater to different needs while maintaining respect for the cemetery’s original function. Climate protection measures have been implemented, including a future water pond that will manage rainfall water locally in the area. Additionally, biodiversity-enhancing initiatives are also incorporated into the development plan.