The architecture of Denmark has its origins in the Viking Age, richly revealed by archaeological finds. It became firmly established in the Middle Ages when first Romanesque, then Gothic churches and cathedrals sprang up throughout the country. It was during this period that, in a country with little access to stone, brick became the construction material of choice, not just for churches but also for fortifications and castles.
Renaissance-styled Frederiksborg Palace completed by Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger in 1620
Reconstructed Viking house, Fyrkat
St. Bendt's Church in Ringsted, 1170
St. Peter's Church, Næstved (1375)
St. Bendt's Church, Ringsted
St. Bendt's Church is a church in Ringsted, Denmark, which was originally part of a Benedictine monastery that burnt down in the 18th century. Built in the Romanesque style, it is the oldest brick church in Scandinavia, dating back to about 1170 when it replaced a travertine church from about 1080. It is considered to be one of Denmark's architecturally finest churches. Furthermore, it is of special historical interest as it is the first Royal church in Denmark and it houses the tombs of many of Denmark's earlier monarchs and noblemen.
St. Bendt's Church, Ringsted
Constantin Hansen: Scene from the interior of Ringsted Church: In the foreground Constantin Hansen and Jørgen Roed, 1829,
St. Bendt's: the nave
Plaque listing royal tombs