Højby Church

Højby, Denmark

Højby Church dates back to the beginning of the 12th century and it is constructed in granite. Several modifications have taken place since the original construction including a porch in the 13th century, Gothic cross-vaulting in the nave and chancel in the 14th century, a tower around the year 1400 as well as a vestry, a chapel and a new entrance porch towards the end of the Middle Ages.

The church is recognised for its fine wall paintings which are considered to be among the best in the country from the late Gothic period. They were probably created at the beginning of the 15th century, shortly after the cross vaults were added. They were discovered in 1901 and have been restored on several occasions. During the last restoration in 2007, the painting of Erasmus' martyrdom was revealed for the first time.

The paintings in the chancel tell the story of the Day of Judgment with images of Christ, a basoon-playing archangel and St Michael. The lost souls are shown going to hell with the devil standing in its flames. There is also a painting of St George and the dragon including the Syrian princess he saved from the dragon.

References:

Comments

Your name



Address

Bag Kirken 6, Højby, Denmark
See all sites in Højby

Details

Founded: 12th century
Category: Religious sites in Denmark
Historical period: The First Kingdom (Denmark)

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Anne-Marie Olsen (7 months ago)
Beautiful church with many frescoes. Funny story with the crooked floor. Beautiful church wall of natural stone
Tommy Christiansen (10 months ago)
A beautiful church with beautiful frescoes. Located high up with a wonderful view of the area.
Pia Gaff (13 months ago)
Was for urn lowering, very nice and the engraver had a good feel for the grieving needs
Lasse von Guldborg (2 years ago)
Really nice church. Haven't been inside the actual church yet.
Frederik Raunstrup (2 years ago)
Beautiful paintings in this 1100 church
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.