Christianshavn is a neighbourhood in
Copenhagen,
Denmark. Part of the
Indre By District, it is located on the island of
Amager and separated from the rest of the city centre by the Inner Harbour. It was founded in the early 17th century by
Christian IV as part of his extension of the
fortifications of Copenhagen. Originally, it was laid out as an independent privileged merchant's town with inspiration from
Dutch cities but it was soon incorporated into Copenhagen proper. Dominated by canals, it is the part of Copenhagen with the most nautical atmosphere.