Ribe Cathedral - Denmark's oldest cathedral

Photo: Ribe Domkirke

Ribe Cathedral

Photo: Ribe Domkirke

Ribe Cathedral view from the gallery

Photo: Ribe Domkirke

The altar in Ribe Cathedral decorated by Carl Henning Pedersen

Ribe Cathedral is visible for miles across the flat landscape, and it is amazing to think that travellers have been met by this sight since the middle of the 13th century when it was completed. Ribe Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Denmark.

Vor Frue Kirke (The Church of Our Lady), as the cathedral is actually called, became the only five-aisled cathedral in Denmark following numerous alterations and additions. The present-day building is characterised by a wealth of different styles and interesting details. There are sepulchral monuments to some of the most powerful men of the town and the nation as a whole, as well as the oldest sepulchral monument in Scandinavia, erected by King Valdemar the Conqueror to a son who died in 1231.

Borgertårnet (The Commoners’ Tower), which dates from the 14th century, functions as the town’s watchtower and storm tower and provides amazing views of the marshes. The 52-metre-high tower is entered through the cathedral (please note that children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult). At the foot of the Maria Tower, which houses the cathedral bells, stands a statue of Hans Tausen (1494-1561) - monk, Lutheran and protagonist of the Danish Reformation, appointed Bishop of Ribe in 1542. Next to Tausen stands a statue of the hymn writer Hans Adolf Brorson (1694-1764) - Pietist, rural dean in Ribe 1737, appointed Bishop of Ribe in 1741. On the south side of the cathedral stands the sculpture of Ansgar, made by the artist Hein Heinsen in December 2015.

The cathedral’s carillon bells play the tune to Brorson’s hymn “Den yndigste rose er funden” (Now found is the fairest of roses) at 08.00 and 18.00, and the popular folk song about Queen Dagmar at 12.00 and 15.00.

Bishop of Ribe
It was around 860 that Ansgar, known as the Apostle of the North, was given permission to build a church in Ribe and to let a Christian priest reside there. It is only from the year 948 onwards, however, that can we say for certain that Ribe has had a bishop and therefore a cathedral.

Michelin Travel Guide
Ribe Cathedral has been awarded top marks by the French Michelin Travel Guide for sights and attractions. The cathedral was awarded two stars. Read more

Carl Henning Pedersen
The chancel features a series of colourful paintings and mosaics by Carl Henning Pedersen (added between 1982 and 1987).

Hotels nearby of Ribe Cathedral - Denmark's oldest cathedral

  • Gram Slotskro

    18.99 km

    Gram Slotskro is steeped in history. In the magnificent surroundings, guests cannot fail to feel the passage of time. Uniquely sited next to Gram Castle, the inn is perfect for a relaxing stay with good food cooked using seasonal raw ingredients. Today, the fourth generation of the Schrøder family runs the inn.
    Read more : Gram Slotskro
  • Agerskov Kro

    32.18 km

    In the heart of South Jutland lies Agerskov Kro & Hotel. The old buildings have been modernised with respect for the original atmosphere, and the inn has been expanded with large rooms. The innkeeper works in the kitchen alongside his staff of chefs, where they prepare meals to satisfy the most discerning palates.
    Read more : Agerskov Kro
  • Hotel Hovborg Kro

    32.91 km

    Hovborg Kro is famous for its low-ceiled taprooms and for its splendid Jutland food. The inn has been here for at least 250 years and the thatched main building erected in 1790 is reverently preserved. Without ruining the atmosphere the owners have succeeded in “building in” modern facilities valued by today’s guests.
    Read more : Hotel Hovborg Kro
  • Abild Kro & Hotel

    39.28 km

    Stay in scenic surroundings at Abild Kro & Hotel, which is located in the middle of the marsh and close to the German border. Experience the phenomenon Black Sun or the beautiful nature by the Wadden Sea. Look forward to being pampered and getting great service from the staff.

    Read more : Abild Kro & Hotel
  • Billum Kro

    42.09 km

    Billum Kro is an authentic Danish Inn with warm and attentive hosts and, in addition, you can expect an outstanding culinary experience. The location is a perfect starting point for guests looking for great experiences in Western Denmark. Close to the beaches of the North Sea, Wadden Sea National Park and Tirpitz.

    Read more : Billum Kro
  • Hotel Tønderhus

    44.49 km

    In the heart of the marshlands, you will find Hotel Tønderhus. The cosy restaurant serves pure pleasure with a cheery smile. Tønder is a natural starting point for fantastic experiences, such as the Sort Sol phenomenon (the gathering of large flocks of starlings in autumn or spring).

    Read more : Hotel Tønderhus
  • Tyrstrup Kro

    44.89 km

    Tyrstrup Kro is idyllically situated in the middle of fields and woods a few kilometres from the gingerbread town Christiansfeld. It has been here for at least 350 years, but in recent years the old inn has undergone largescale restorations and has become an internationally known restaurant.
    Read more : Tyrstrup Kro
  • Hotel Røde-Kro

    46.31 km

    Hotel Røde-Kro is a family driven business, which is placed centrally near Aabenraa. There is a high focus on creating a good atmosphere, as well the coziness feeling with a strong professional approach. The location opens the opportunities to ramble. There's among other the path Gendarmstien along the coast, and more.
    Read more : Hotel Røde-Kro
  • Hotel Hedemarken

    48.85 km

    You can hardly get any closer to the heart of Jutland: Hotel Hedemarken is situated near good golf courses, LEGOLAND®, and Givskud Zoo, has a beautiful brook in the backyard with salmon, and modern facilities. Quality is the pride of the place.

    Read more : Hotel Hedemarken
  • Refborg Hotel Billund

    49.87 km

    The cosy Refborg Hotel Billund in the middle of the town Billund bids welcome to LEGOLAND® guests and all others who would like to benefit from the excellent location close to a number of attractions and activities. You will enjoy the fine possibilities of golfing, fishing and walking tours in the neighbourhood.
    Read more : Refborg Hotel Billund