In Copenhagen, 6 million bricks make up the stunning Grundtvig’s Church

Aug 7

Getting from central Copenhagen to Grundtvig’s Church in the north western part of the city requires a bit of a bike ride up hill, but we promise you; once you lay eyes on this church, all hardships will be forgotten.

On top of a small hill in the outskirts of Copenhagen stands a monumental church, whose Gothic façade suddenly appears out of nowhere. In 1940 after more than twenty years of building, this incredible piece of architecture was consecrated as a commemoration of the Danish priest and philosopher N.F.S. Grundtvig (1783-1872). Grundtvig, one of the most influential characters in Danish church history, presented the Evangelical Lutheran Church with a whole new perspective: human first, then Christian. After Grundtvig’s death, a competition to design his memorial was initiated and Danish architect Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint convinced the jury with his impressive project; Grundtvig’s Church.

In his work as well in his personal life, Jensen-Klint was inspired by Grundtvig and his take on humanity. Grundtvig demanded space in his view on religion, and so did Jensen-Klint in the building of his memorial. Mixing medieval traditions with Gothic columns in a church with the size of a cathedral, Jensen-Klint created something that had never been seen before. Having built a couple of small town churches beforehand, Klint had always utilized red bricks. However, the comprehensive size of this cathedral would mean a very massive red stone building and so, Klint-Jensen chose the light yellow bricks as building material. From outside of the church, the bricks have darkened from the elements; but from inside, the color palette strikes visitors as being very bright and minimalistic. As Grundtvig’s beliefs were not characterized by a pronounced worship of God, neither is this church showered with crosses nor painting of the Virgin Mary.

Mixing medieval traditions with Gothic columns in a church with the size of a cathedral, Jensen-Klint created something that had never been seen before.

Today locals and tourist alike flock to the small hill of Bispebjerg Bakke. The silence and ambiance of the church can be quite addictive, and if you go here in the morning when the sunlight hits the beautiful ceilings, you will most likely have the place all to yourself. And remember; whether you are a human or a Christian first, this church will surely awaken something in you.