Aarhus Cathedral

Aarhus Cathedral, known locally as Aarhus Domkirke, stands proudly in the heart of Aarhus, Denmark, as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. As the longest and tallest church in Denmark, this magnificent edifice is a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Aarhus. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Aarhus Cathedral offers an unforgettable experience.

The History of Aarhus Cathedral

The story of Aarhus Cathedral begins in the 12th century when construction was initiated by Bishop Peder Vognsen. The cathedral was built around the site of St. Clement’s Church, a timber structure dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, St. Clement. The original church was constructed to house the relics of St. Clement, who was martyred by being thrown into the Black Sea with an anchor tied to his neck. The cathedral's dedication to St. Clement highlights the importance of maritime culture in Aarhus, a city with a long history of seafaring.

The initial construction of Aarhus Cathedral was completed in 1300 in a Romanesque style, characterized by half-rounded arches and a flat timber ceiling. However, a devastating fire in 1330 led to significant damage, and the church was abandoned until 1449. When reconstruction began, the Gothic architectural style had reached Denmark, and the cathedral was enlarged and transformed. By the year 1500, the cathedral had reached its present size, with a nave stretching 93 meters, making it the longest in Denmark. The Gothic vaulting allowed for high windows, filling the interior with light and creating a sense of grandeur.

Exploring Aarhus Cathedral

As you step inside Aarhus Cathedral, you are immediately struck by the sense of history and the beauty of its architecture. The cathedral can seat around 1200 people, making it a significant place of worship and community gathering. One of the most remarkable features of the cathedral is its fresco paintings, which date from 1470 to 1520. These frescoes cover 220 square meters, more than any other church in Denmark, and provide a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the period.

Among the frescoes, the paintings of St. Christopher and St. Clement are particularly notable, standing as the tallest in the country. Another fascinating painting is the Lazarus Window, believed to have been used to give food to lepers who were not permitted inside the building. This window dates back to around 1300 and is a rare surviving piece from the original Romanesque cathedral.

The Stained Glass Window

Aarhus Cathedral features a single, magnificent stained glass window created by Norwegian artist Emanuel Vigeland in 1926. Standing 14 meters high, it is the largest stained glass window in Denmark. The window's theme is taken from N. F. S. Grundtvig's hymn Da livtræet fæstet i graven rod, and it depicts three scenes: Christ lying in his grave, the Crucifixion, and Christ standing in golden light. The Crucifixion scene is unique in that it shows Jesus's head falling to the left, unlike traditional depictions where it falls to the right.

The Altar and Pulpit

The cathedral's altarpiece, carved by the renowned Lübeck sculptor Bernt Notke, is a masterpiece of medieval art. Dedicated on Easter Sunday in 1479, the altarpiece features movable sections that reveal different scenes during the liturgical calendar. The pulpit, carved in oak by Mikkel van Groningen and dedicated in 1588, showcases scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, adding to the cathedral's rich narrative tapestry.

The Baptismal Font

The baptismal font, created in copper by bell maker Peter Hansen of Flensborg in 1481, is another highlight of Aarhus Cathedral. It was a gift from Bishop Jens Ivarsen Lange, who also donated the great altarpiece. The font stands on the heads of the four evangelists, each depicted with the head of the animal that symbolizes their gospel. The font features four scenes from the life of Christ and nine of the apostles, making it a significant piece of religious art.

Golden Gates, Bells, and Model Ship

The Golden Door, one of five wrought iron gates separating the nave from the choir, is a reminder of the separation between clergy and public in Catholic times. These gates were crafted by German-born artist Caspar Fincke. The cathedral's bell tower, the tallest in Denmark at 96 meters, houses eight bells. Despite being struck by lightning in 1642, which destroyed some of the historic bells, the tower remains an iconic feature of Aarhus Cathedral.

In conclusion, Aarhus Cathedral is not just a place of worship but a living museum of Danish history and culture. Its towering spire, ancient frescoes, and intricate artworks tell the story of a city that has evolved over centuries. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its spiritual ambiance, Aarhus Cathedral is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.