About Us

1971

Founding
of Freetown Christiania: Christiania was established on September 26, 1971, by
a group of residents, artists, and activists who sought an alternative,
autonomous lifestyle in the abandoned Bådsmandsstræde military barracks in
Christianshavn, Copenhagen. These early settlers introduced a declaration of
independence from Danish law, aiming to build a community grounded in values
like creativity, freedom, and equality.

1972

Initial
Government Reaction: The Danish government attempts to evict Christiania's
residents, but public support and media attention lead to a compromise.
Christiania is granted provisional status as a “social experiment,” which
allows it to operate independently within certain boundaries.

1973

Early
Community Growth: As the settlement stabilizes, it attracts a diverse mix of
people, including families, artists, musicians, and those seeking a
community-oriented way of life. The unique living environment and open art
scene establish Christiania as a local cultural landmark, and it begins to gain
attention beyond Denmark.

 

1974

Emergence
of Local Traditions: Early residents begin creating community spaces, including
collective kitchens, gardens, workshops, and event areas, as well as a council
system to manage internal affairs. The first music festivals and art
installations are organized, marking Christiania as a cultural hub.

1976

Tourism
Begins to Rise: Christiania becomes increasingly popular as a destination for
tourists and locals, known for its vibrant murals, unusual architecture, and
the spirit of personal freedom and sustainability. The community's mix of art
and cultural activities, such as open-air performances and exhibitions, fosters
a reputation that attracts visitors from across Europe.

1979

Establishment
of Community Governance: Christiania’s residents establish regular community
meetings and committees to manage daily affairs, decision-making, and
maintenance. This period helps formalize Christiania's operations and solidify
its structure as an organized community.

 

1981

Formation
of Christiania Sports Club (CSC): As Christiania grows, its residents form CSC
to unite local football enthusiasts and offer positive activities for youth and
adults alike. Christiania’s ethos is woven into the club, emphasizing
sportsmanship, inclusivity, and community.

1982

First
Informal Competitions: CSC begins hosting friendly matches with nearby
neighborhoods, becoming known for its relaxed style and supportive fanbase. The
club’s unique, alternative spirit helps it stand out in Copenhagen’s sports
scene.

1984

Growing
Fanbase: CSC’s matches become popular events within Christiania, with locals
gathering to cheer for the team. The club grows in structure and starts to play
regular matches, eventually joining informal local leagues around Copenhagen.

 

1986

Christiania’s
Identity Becomes Recognized: Christiania has by now earned a reputation as a
community dedicated to freedom, creativity, and an independent way of life.
Visitors and residents alike enjoy the relaxed, artistic environment.

1989

CSC
Joins Amateur Leagues: CSC officially registers in Copenhagen’s amateur
football leagues, introducing the club’s unique approach to sports to a wider
audience. Known for its community-first approach, CSC brings new energy to
local leagues, making football accessible and enjoyable for players and fans
alike.

 

1991

Community-Focused
Developments: Christiania introduces more sustainable practices, like communal
gardening and eco-friendly building techniques. Workshops and classes are held
on topics like organic farming and upcycling, solidifying Christiania as a model
for alternative urban living.

1994

CSC
Grows in Popularity: CSC holds its first community tournament, drawing
attention from within and beyond Christiania. By organizing and hosting these
matches, CSC strengthens its reputation in the local community and further
establishes itself as a celebrated part of Christiania’s identity.

 

1996

Tourism
Boosts Christiania’s Profile: Media coverage of Christiania’s alternative
lifestyle leads to increased tourism, drawing curious visitors and adding to
the community’s visibility. Christiania opens information centers and guides to
help manage tourism, providing a deeper understanding of its cultural and
environmental initiatives.

1999

CSC
Gains Local Media Attention: CSC’s tournaments and games begin to attract
attention from local media, highlighting its unique culture and commitment to
fair play and inclusivity. CSC’s players become ambassadors for Christiania,
introducing people to the community’s values through the sport.

 

2000

Increased
Government Interest: Proposals to “normalize” Christiania emerge, sparking
discussions about the future of the freetown. The community organizes
fundraising events, some of which involve CSC’s participation, to support legal
efforts to preserve Christiania’s identity.

2003

Formation
of Christiania Foundation: Christiania’s residents establish a foundation to
protect their land rights. CSC helps fundraise and organize events that bolster
community unity, reinforcing its role as a central pillar of Christiania.

 

2010

CSC
and Hummel Begin Collaboration: Danish sportswear brand Hummel partners with
CSC, designing custom jerseys inspired by Christiania’s culture and colors.
This partnership elevates CSC’s visibility and introduces the club to
international fans, adding a new dimension to its identity.

2011

Land
Ownership Secured: Christiania’s residents achieve a significant milestone by
purchasing the land through the Christiania Foundation. CSC commemorates this
achievement with events, and Hummel designs a special-edition jersey to
celebrate Christiania’s enduring legacy.

2014-15

Global
superstars Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne: In back to back years, the two global
superstars performed in big venues in Copenhagen, wearing and supporting
Christiania sports club jerseys. This meant a tremendous amount of shirts sold
in a short amount of time, cementing the club in danish sports history, as an
important cultural landmark of denmark and hip hop/rap.

2016

International
Recognition for CSC and Hummel: Hummel’s unique Christiania-inspired kits draw
international attention, and CSC gains global visibility as a distinctive
football club with deep cultural roots. The partnership with Hummel helps CSC
expand its merchandise, with proceeds supporting Christiania’s community
projects.

2017–2019

CSC
Becomes a Cultural Symbol: Christiania’s legacy is celebrated through CSC’s
growth. The club becomes a proud representative of Christiania, attracting fans
from around the world who appreciate its alternative values and commitment to
inclusivity.

2020

Challenges
During the Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic affects CSC’s schedule, but the club
maintains fan engagement through online events and limited-edition merchandise
with Hummel. This period underscores CSC’s resilience and adaptability as it
continues to support Christiania.

2021

40th
Anniversary of CSC: CSC celebrates 40 years of football and community
involvement. Hummel designs a commemorative kit, paying homage to CSC’s roots
in Christiania. The event attracts a mix of old and new fans, celebrating the
club’s contributions to the community.

2023–Present

CSC’s
Ongoing Role in Christiania: Today, CSC remains a key part of Christiania,
representing its values on both local and international stages. Hummel
continues its partnership with the club, releasing annual collections that
celebrate Christiania’s spirit and CSC’s legacy. Christiania and CSC look to
the future with optimism, dedicated to preserving the freetown’s culture and
supporting new generations through sports and community.