King Frederik thanks first responders following fire in historic building

King Frederik X of Denmark has thanked the first responders following a fire in the historic Copenhagen stock exchange.

He wrote, “This morning, we woke up to a sad sight, as smoke over the roofs of Copenhagen gave evidence of the destructive fire at Børsen. An important part of our architectural, cultural heritage was and continues to be in flames.

“For 400 years, Christian IV’s edifice Børsen has been a distinctive landmark of Copenhagen.

“Throughout generations, the characteristic dragon spire has helped to depict Copenhagen as the “city of towers”.

“Until today, we have considered the historic building as a beautiful symbol of our capital and a structure that we, as a nation, have been proud of.

“The Queen and I would like to thank all of those who, since early this morning, have ensured that no one has been injured, and who have fought to save as much as possible of both the building as well as the many cultural treasures and works of art that Børsen holds.

Frederik R.”

The building, which dates from 1625, is very close to the parliament at Christiansborg Castle.