Carlsberg Brewery | Copenhagen

The Carlsberg Brewery is one of Denmark’s most iconic landmarks and a major part of the country’s history and cultural heritage. It is not only famous for producing some of the world's best-known beers but also for its rich history, innovative contributions to brewing, and its beautiful architecture and surroundings. The brewery’s site, which has evolved over the years, is also home to the Carlsberg Visitor Centre, where visitors can learn about the history of the brewery, its products, and the world of beer-making.

Overview

• Name: Carlsberg Brewery (Carlsberg Group)
• Location: Valby, Copenhagen, Denmark
• Founded: 1847
• Founders: J.C. Jacobsen and Carl Jacobsen
• Famous Products: Carlsberg, Tuborg, and a variety of specialty beers

History and Development

The Carlsberg Brewery was founded in 1847 by J.C. Jacobsen, a Danish brewer who was passionate about improving beer quality and developing better brewing techniques. The name "Carlsberg" is derived from the combination of Jacobsen's son Carl's name and the Danish word "bjerg," meaning mountain, as the brewery was originally located on a hill in Copenhagen.

Jacobsen revolutionized the brewing process by introducing scientific research into beer-making, including the study of yeast and fermentation. His passion for innovation led him to establish one of the first brewery laboratories in the world, focusing on the creation of better beer quality.

Carlsberg quickly grew into one of the world’s largest and most successful breweries, known for producing high-quality pilsner beer, and its products became widely recognized internationally. The brand is now part of the Carlsberg Group, which is a major player in the global beer industry.

Carlsberg Brewery Today

Today, the Carlsberg Brewery operates as part of the Carlsberg Group, which produces many different beer brands, including Tuborg, Holsten, and various craft beer labels. The company is a global leader in beer production, with breweries and operations worldwide.

The Carlsberg site in Valby remains an iconic part of Copenhagen, with a blend of modern brewing technology and preserved historical structures, such as the brewery's old buildings, the Carlsberg Laboratory, and the famous Elephant Gate. The brewery site has become a popular tourist destination, with the Carlsberg Visitor Centre offering a range of interactive exhibits and experiences that highlight the history and impact of Carlsberg.

Carlsberg Visitor Centre

The Carlsberg Visitor Centre is located at the original Carlsberg brewery in Valby, Copenhagen. It offers an immersive experience for visitors to learn about the history, production, and impact of Carlsberg beer.

Exhibitions and Tours:

• The visitor center features interactive exhibitions on the history of Carlsberg, its founder J.C. Jacobsen, and the legacy of the brewery.
• Visitors can learn about brewing techniques, the science of fermentation, and the development of Carlsberg’s most popular beers.
• Guided tours of the brewery are available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how beer is brewed, packaged, and distributed. The tours also provide historical insights into the brewery's origins and its impact on Danish culture and industry.

The Elephant Gate:

• One of the most notable landmarks at the Carlsberg Brewery is the Elephant Gate, which is located at the entrance to the brewery. The gate features two grand sculptures of elephants and was built by Carl Jacobsen in the late 19th century as a tribute to his travels in Asia. The gate is a striking example of neoclassical architecture and remains a symbol of the brewery’s prestige.

The Carlsberg Lab:

• The Carlsberg Laboratory is one of the oldest brewing research facilities in the world. The lab was established by J.C. Jacobsen and has contributed significantly to the development of modern brewing techniques, particularly in the study of yeast fermentation and the science of beer.
• The lab is still in operation today, conducting research to improve beer quality and innovate in the brewing industry.

Carlsberg’s Beer Garden and Tasting Room:

• A key feature of the Carlsberg Visitor Centre is the tasting room, where visitors can sample a wide variety of Carlsberg beers, including some limited-edition brews and seasonal offerings.
• The Carlsberg Beer Garden provides a relaxing atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the brewery’s beers while overlooking the scenic grounds.

Carlsberg’s Legacy and Influence

Scientific Contributions:

• Carlsberg has made significant contributions to the brewing world, particularly in the fields of microbiology and biochemistry. J.C. Jacobsen's work on yeast and fermentation processes helped establish the foundation of modern brewing. Carlsberg’s research laboratory is considered one of the world’s first and most influential brewing research centers.

Philanthropy and Culture:

• J.C. Jacobsen was also a philanthropist, contributing to the development of Danish cultural institutions. He established the Carlsberg Foundation, which supports research in the fields of science, arts, and humanities.
• Carl Jacobsen, his son, went on to found the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum in Copenhagen that houses a world-class collection of sculpture and ancient art.

International Reach:

• Carlsberg beer has become a globally recognized brand, available in over 150 countries. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has kept it at the forefront of the global beer industry.

Sustainability:

• The Carlsberg Group is also committed to sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact, such as sustainable packaging, reducing water usage, and carbon emissions, as well as promoting responsible drinking.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

• The Carlsberg Visitor Centre is typically open Tuesday to Sunday. Hours may vary based on seasons or special events, so it’s best to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
• The museum is usually closed on Mondays and some holidays.

Admission Fees:

• Tickets for the Carlsberg Visitor Centre are typically charged, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Special rates may apply for group tours.
• Tickets generally include access to exhibitions, the brewery tour, and a beer tasting session.

Guided Tours and Workshops:

• Guided tours are available in multiple languages, providing a detailed overview of the brewery’s history and operations.
• Workshops on beer-tasting and brewing techniques are also available, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process hands-on.

Accessibility:

• The Carlsberg Visitor Centre is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy access to all areas of the museum and brewery tour.
• Audio guides and written materials are available in various languages to assist international visitors.

Conclusion

The Carlsberg Brewery is not just a place where beer is brewed; it is a rich part of Copenhagen's cultural and historical fabric. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to its status as one of the world's leading beer producers, Carlsberg's legacy is intertwined with Danish innovation, philanthropy, and scientific advancement. The Carlsberg Visitor Centre offers a unique opportunity to explore this legacy, experience the brewing process firsthand, and taste some of the best beers in the world.