Det Kongelige Bibliotek

Better known as the Black Diamond (Den Sorte Diamant) for its angular facade clad in polished black granite, the waterfront Det Kongelige Bibliotek (kb.dk/en; free) was completed in 1999, and was one of the first new buildings in the wholesale modernization and redevelopment of Copenhagen’s inner harbor. The soaring building elegantly bookends the 20th century, and the angular waterfront wing connects to the original library that dates from 1906. The transition from soaring glass atrium to the dark wood and green banker’s lamps of the reading room is a thrill, and there are great views down into the atrium from the top floor. The library houses a complete collection of all Danish printed works produced since 1482. Join a tour to explore the building in detail. Closed on Sunday.