In Albertslund, west of Copenhagen, sits what remains of Herstedvester Radiofonistation. Today, it’s easy to miss—a set of weathered buildings tucked behind overgrown trees. But for decades, this was one of Denmark’s most important communication hubs, a place where the country’s voice was broadcast to listeners across the globe.
The station opened in 1934, replacing an older facility in Copenhagen’s city center. At its core was a towering 125-meter wooden mast, a striking sight that earned it the nickname “Eiffel Tower of Albertslund.” Built from pitch pine, it carried Denmark’s radio transmissions on a medium-wave frequency, bringing news, culture, and music to every corner of the country. At the time, radio was cutting-edge technology, and Herstedvester was at the forefront of it.
The 125-meter-high wooden mast, nicknamed the “Eiffel Tower” of the area, was active until 1975.
(Photo: Radiohistorisk Forening Ringsted)
In the late 1940s, the station expanded into shortwave broadcasting with the addition of a powerful 50kW transmitter. This allowed Denmark to beam programs far beyond its borders, reaching Greenland, North America, and even further. Shortwave was more than just entertainment—it was a lifeline for Danes living abroad, and during the Cold War, it became a diplomatic tool. Programs included everything from news updates to music shows and even specialized content for English-speaking listeners around the world.
Airieal map from 1954 showing the “Eiffel Tower” and it’s shadow. Alongside other smaller towers.
For decades, Herstedvester was a vital part of Danish broadcasting. It was where maritime weather updates kept sailors informed, and it was where programs like “DX-Window” gained loyal listeners with its focus on amateur radio culture. It wasn’t just a station—it was part of daily life for people both at home and abroad.
But technology evolved, and Herstedvester couldn’t keep up. FM radio, with its better sound quality and user-friendly tuning, took over in the 1980s, leaving medium- and shortwave broadcasts in the dust. By 1989, the station stopped its medium-wave transmissions, and by February 1990, the final broadcast was sent out. The equipment was sold off, and the site was abandoned.
Today, the station is just a relic. The wooden mast is long gone, and the main building, where engineers once worked, is empty and falling apart. Graffiti covers the walls, and the surrounding area is overgrown with weeds and bushes.
There’s nothing glamorous about the site now—it’s just a forgotten piece of history. But for those who know the story, it’s a fascinating reminder of the role this station played in Denmark’s past. Herstedvester was where technology and connection came together, shaping how a small country communicated with the rest of the world.
Cutout from Danish newspaper reading:
“Herstedvester Radio Transmitter Opened This Morning
Europe’s most modern radio—a Danish engineering masterpiece that will stand as a testament to the skills of Danish radio engineers.
The first station with a vertical antenna.
The inauguration of the station this morning.“
The transmission hall with the transmitter and control panel.
(Photo: Teleteknik, 1954)
