Inside the Børsen Fire: How Polygon Helped Protect Denmark’s Cultural Heritage

Two years have passed since Copenhagen woke up to dramatic scenes on the morning of April 16, 2024. Flames were spreading through the roof of Børsen, the historic 17th-century stock exchange building in central Copenhagen and one of Denmark’s most iconic landmarks. Within a short time, the fire had developed into a major emergency, threatening not only the structure itself but also centuries of cultural value housed inside.

Less than an hour after the fire began, Polygon Denmark received the call. 

“We were told it was a major incident and that we had to send everything we had,” recalls Michael L. Bøgebjerg, Major and Complex Claims Manager at Polygon Denmark.  

What followed was one of the most complex and demanding operations in the company’s history.

Racing against time 

Polygon mobilised immediately. Within a short time, 35 specialists and more than 20 vehicles were on their way to the scene. Access to the area was already limited due to traffic and emergency activity, so the police escorted the team through the city to ensure they could arrive as quickly as possible. 

When the team reached Børsen, the situation was already critical. The fire had spread through the roof structure, smoke filled large parts of the building, and water from firefighting efforts was beginning to affect other areas. 

After a short coordination with the fire command, Polygon teams were cleared to begin work on the side of the building opposite the fire. The goal was clear from the beginning: act quickly to protect and recover as much as possible.

Working in extreme conditions 

Polygon’s teams entered the building while the fire was still ongoing. Conditions inside were challenging, with reduced visibility, unstable surroundings, and constantly changing circumstances. All work was carried out under the direction of the fire department, who continuously assessed which areas were safe to access. 

“It was very intense,” Michael says. “The first 48 hours, we didn’t get much sleep.”  

At the same time, the operation required close coordination between multiple stakeholders, including the fire department, police, insurance companies, and representatives from Børsen. Communication was continuous, with priorities shifting as new information emerged and conditions evolved. 

Plans had to be made, adapted, and often changed in real time. 

“You have to be flexible in a situation like this,” he explains. 

Despite the complexity, the coordinated effort enabled progress in a highly demanding and unpredictable environment.

Protecting irreplaceable assets 

Inside Børsen were artworks, historical artefacts, and valuable items that could not be replaced. Identifying and prioritising what to save first was a critical part of the operation. 

Working closely with available contacts and information on site, the team established a structured approach. Cultural and historically significant items were carefully removed and transferred to the National Museum, while furniture and other assets were transported to Polygon facilities for cleaning and restoration. 

The work required both speed and precision. Within a few days, large volumes of assets had been safely removed, packed, and relocated. 

At the same time, Polygon supported efforts to stabilise the building itself. This included reducing the impact of water and smoke, protecting unaffected areas, and helping to prevent further damage. 

A moment that defined the team 

For the people involved, the Børsen fire was more than just another assignment. It was a project of national significance, carried out under intense pressure. 

Many employees have since reflected on the pride of being part of the effort and contributing to protecting an important part of Denmark’s heritage. 

The work was later recognised with an invitation to Copenhagen City Hall, where emergency responders and partners involved in the operation were acknowledged for their contribution. 

“In an extremely critical and emotional situation, Polygon demonstrated exceptional professionalism, speed, and dedication. Their ability to mobilise quickly and handle both valuable assets and complex logistics made a significant difference in preserving what could be saved.” Lars Daugaard Jepsen, Vice Director, Danish Chamber of Commerce, Program Director for the Reconstruction of Børsen 

Lessons for the future 

The Børsen fire highlights the importance of being prepared when it comes to protecting valuable buildings and their contents. Having clear recovery plans and defined priorities for what should be saved first can make a significant difference in emergency situations. 

The experience also reinforced the importance of readiness, flexibility, and strong collaboration between all parties involved. Following the incident, investments have been made to further strengthen emergency capabilities and ensure even better preparedness for future large-scale events.

More than a project 

Even for someone with decades of experience, this was something different. 

“I’ve seen many fires, but nothing like this,” Michael says.  

The speed of the response proved critical. Acting within the first hours made it possible to recover and protect large volumes of items that might otherwise have been lost. 

The Børsen fire will be remembered as a tragic event, but also as an example of what can be achieved through rapid response, expertise, and teamwork under pressure. 

For Polygon Denmark, it remains a defining moment that continues to shape how the team prepares for and responds to the most complex challenges.