Overview

• Denmark’s Agency for Palaces and Culture ruled that the 4×6-metre sculpture clashes with Dragør Fort’s 1910 historic environment and is preparing its removal.
• Dragør municipality formally declined Peter Bech’s offer to donate the 14-tonne statue, with officials saying it cannot be accommodated on fort grounds.
• Peter Bech, who carved the mermaid in response to calls for a larger public monument, defends its proportions and tourist draw.
• Fort owner Torben Bodtker and local supporters are exploring private venues and citizen proposals to keep the statue on display.
• The dispute underscores stricter heritage guidelines for protected sites and ongoing debates over female representation and artistic freedom in public art.