Denmark’s Smallest Equestrian Statue

Equestrian statues are seen worldwide, especially in places like Europe and North America, where they typically honor leaders. In Næstved, Denmark, a much smaller and more unusual version stands—Danmarks Mindste Rytterstatue (“Denmark’s Smallest Equestrian Statue”), a 16.5-inch (42 cm) figure that’s the country’s smallest public, permanent equestrian monument.

The modest bronze statue depicts Peder Bodilsen, a medieval nobleman and one of Næstved’s founders, on horseback. Unveiled in 1935 to mark the city’s 800th anniversary and created by sculptor Mathilius Schack Elo, the statue has become a quirky symbol of Næstved’s history. This tiny tribute, perched on a plinth, stands in stark contrast to the more grandiose equestrian statues often found in public spaces.

In 1977, the statue was dismantled and stolen by a thief. Then, on April Fool’s Day, a prankster placed an even smaller replica on the empty pedestal, leaving the town puzzled. A group of soldiers later came across the original statue and, after confirming its identity, returned it to the mayor, who thanked them with a cash reward for their efforts.