Copenhagen’s Cathedral (The Church of Our Lady) is built on a site that’s been home to four churches since 1209. The first two churches were destroyed by fire, and the third was destroyed during the bombardment of Copenhagen in 1807. A rocket hit the spire igniting a blaze, and the church again nearly burnt to the ground.
The church was in ruin for almost 10 years, but construction of the current church began in 1817,and it was consecrated in 1829. Denmark was broke after the Napoleonic wars and there was not a lot of money around for the construction of a fancy building. Still, architect C. F. Hansen designed an attractive modern Cathedral in a neo-classical style, with a dome and colonnade. The church has the largest bell tower in Denmark, standing over 60 meters tall. It can accommodate about 1100 people.
The interior is simple but appealing. Well-known Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen decorated the interior of the Cathedral with his sculptures of Christ, the twelve Apostles, and the baptismal font. I found the most captivating and powerful of these to be the statue of Christ above the altar, welcoming you in, which is the focal point of the church.
In front of it is the baptismal font made of Italian marble and shaped like a guardian angel.
The twelve apostles holding their symbols are spaced around the nave. It should be noted that Mr. Thorvaldsen was not only very talented but a generous man as he donated (at no charge0 all the marble sculptures to the church.
The following photo of font and Christ sculpture served as last weekend’s One Clue mystery. It was recognized by Professor Abe, George G and Teresa C — congratulations to all!
The Copenhagen Cathedral has long been associated with Denmark’s Royal family, dating to the 14th century. The church is used for special events such as coronations and royal weddings. The Church of Our Lady became the main Cathedral of Copenhagen in 1924 — and was appointed as Denmark’s National Cathedral.
The Cathedral was originally Catholic, but following the Protestant Reformation and the crowning in 1536 of King Christian III it was converted to Lutheran, like all Danish churches. An immediate benefit to many was that services were now held in Danish, rather than Latin.
The pulpit is placed towards the center of the church, and I found it interesting that the pews at the front were both forward and rear facing, so that everyone sitting in the church would be able to turn to the minister and hear the message.
There is no admission fee, but the church has an active congregation and daily services, so check for times of entry before you go. Well worth seeing when in the old Latin Quarter of the city.
