Copenhagen is the capital and largest city of Denmark.
Copenhagen was founded around year 1000 by Sweyn I Forkbeard and his son Canute the Great (Knud den Store). It was only a fishing village until the middle of the 12th century when it grew in importance after coming into the possession of the Bishop Absalon, who fortified it in 1167. The excellent harbour encouraged Copenhagen's growth until it became an important centre of commerce (hence its name). It was repeatedly attacked by the Hanseatic League as the Germans took notice. In 1254, it received its charter as a city under Bishop Jakob Erlandsen.
Copenhagen is home to the national parliament, government, and monarchy, which are all situated in the heart of the city.