Copenhagen is considering establishing a center dedicated to the life and work of philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, potentially opening as early as summer 2026. The proposal, named “Søren Kierkegaard’s World,” has received a recommendation from the Municipality of Copenhagen’s Culture and Leisure Committee and awaits a final decision during upcoming budget negotiations.

The initiative aims to address the current lack of a dedicated space in Copenhagen honoring the influential philosopher, despite his significant contributions to Danish literature and philosophy. Currently, Kierkegaard’s presence in the city is limited to statues, while other prominent figures like H.C. Andersen have established museums.

The proposed “Søren Kierkegaard’s World” would be located in the University Library in Fiolstræde. It will feature an exhibition of Kierkegaard-related items from the Museum of Copenhagen, including his silver pens, desk, Regine Olsen’s engagement ring, and his book collection. Plans also include ongoing activities such as debates and discussions.

Visitors will be able to participate in city walks, visiting seven locations in Copenhagen where Kierkegaard lived and wrote. The urban space element will also incorporate podcasts and digital resources, inspired by Kierkegaard’s daily walks through the city.

The project is the result of a decision made by the Culture and Leisure Committee in December of last year, allocating funds to investigate the possibility of establishing a Søren Kierkegaard House. The lack of a dedicated space for Kierkegaard in Copenhagen has been a subject of debate, with some critics noting the disparity compared to the H.C. Andersen House in Odense.

The proposal outlines two versions, with different budgets allocated to each. While Copenhagen’s Culture and Leisure Mayor has expressed support for a permanent Kierkegaard house, the project’s realization depends on securing sufficient funding.

However, some researchers have expressed reservations about the proposal, viewing it as “unambitious.” One Kierkegaard researcher suggests that a few rooms in the University Library may not be enough to adequately represent Kierkegaard’s complex legacy.