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Two great crises occurred in science: The first in 1800 with
Voltas discovery of the “voltaic pile“ commemorated in the large
museum at Gomo, see page 23.
The second turning-point was Oersted’s discovery of electro-
magnetism in 1820 in Copenhagen, fostering an enormous devel
opment.
Part two. Page
27
In Denmark this development started at the beginning of the 19th
century in the old, central part of Copenhagen around the Univer
sity. It can be followed on a map of Copenhagen from 1807, and
on another one from 1947 showing the University and its sur-
roundings.
1
Laboratorium Chymicum built in 1778 in “Skidenstræde”
(i. e. “Filthy Lane” ). Oersted worked here from 1800 to 1806.
Laboratorium Chymicum from 1778 (shown on the front of the
jacket) was situated in “Skidenstræde” in continuation o f the lee
ture room. Both were situated along the lane. No laboratories were
attached to Copenhagen University until 1778, which is earlier
than most other countries. Page 29.
From a book of Scharling about Danish chemistry dated 1857
the existence of this laboratory was known. Nothing, however, was
known o f its whereabouts or lay-out. Contemporary paintings and
pictures from museums, identified here by the author as depicting
the laboratory, are shown in pictures. These buildings were used
by H. C. Oersted from 1800 when he was leeturer in physics and
chemistry at the University, and they remained in use until ap-
prox. 1806.
2
University leetures in physics and chemistry from 1805 to 1813
in Østergade 52.
Here - in premises used also by others - Oersted gave his lectu-
227