Welcome to Nyhavn! You are standing at the most iconic waterfront in Scandinavia. Though its name literally translates to "New Harbor," do not let that fool you—this canal is actually over three hundred and fifty years old. As you look down the waterway, you will see a stunning row of brightly colored townhouses in shades of ochre, crimson, and mustard yellow that have become the face of Copenhagen.[1] Today, it is a place of jazz music, outdoor dining, and laughter, but for centuries, it was the beating, gritty heart of the city's maritime trade. Before we dive into the secrets hidden behind these facades, take a moment to breathe in the salt air and orient yourself. To one side, you have the grand Kongens Nytorv square, and to the other, the canal stretches out toward the main inner harbor.