Aalborg’s ‘Vingen’ sculpture rebuilt after repeated storm damage

The iconic Vingen sculpture in Aalborg has been reinstalled with reinforced structural support after collapsing in winter storms, Danish broadcaster DR reports.

The 9.4-metre-tall granite and metal artwork, a longstanding symbol for students at Hasseris Gymnasium, had toppled twice in five years—most recently in December—due to high winds. This time, crews have added 40 centimetres to its height and strengthened its granite base to prevent future collapses.

“It’s incredibly important, both for the school and the entire Hasseris area. It’s a symbol of youth in western Aalborg,” said Ole Droob, the school’s principal. He added that parents of this year’s graduating class were “euphoric” to see its return.

Henning Sørensen, the Aalborg Municipality contractor overseeing the repairs, confirmed the upgrades should ensure stability. “The granite column is now larger and taller. I don’t think it will fall again in my lifetime,” he said.

First erected in 1972, Vingen (The Wing) traditionally serves as the centrepiece of graduation celebrations, with students dancing around it in their caps and gowns. The sculpture’s repeated damage had raised concerns about safety for pedestrians and students.