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.

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User Reviews

Ole Steinicke (5 months ago)
Nice church, unfortunately it was busy

Betina Riise (7 months ago)
Nice service with help to find a family burial place

Anne-Marie Olsen (2 years ago)
Beautiful church with many frescoes. Funny story with the crooked floor. Beautiful church wall of natural stone

Tommy Christiansen (2 years ago)
A beautiful church with beautiful frescoes. Located high up with a wonderful view of the area.

Pia Gaff (2 years ago)
Was for urn lowering, very nice and the engraver had a good feel for the grieving needs

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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Højby Church

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