Village church in the big city
Torsted Church is a beautiful Romanesque church from the mid-12th century, located in the southern part of Horsens. Originally, the church was situated between the two villages of Torsted and Ørnstrup, a few hundred meters from each, but Horsens has grown significantly to the south over the last century. Often, Our Savior's Church is referred to as the oldest building in Horsens, but in fact, both Torsted and Tyrsted Churches, which have since been absorbed by the city, are older. They both date back to the mid-12th century.
In the Middle Ages, the church was owned by St. Jørgensgården in Horsens, which treated lepers. Later, it became part of Horsens Hospital and was subject to the Hospital Church. It wasn't until 1931 that the church became self-owned. Thus, Torsted Church has a unique ownership history. Often, the region's village churches were sold by the crown to local nobility and landowners.
About the church
The church consists of an original nave and choir from the 12th century, built of rubble stone and boulders. In the Middle Ages, a porch was added. The church does not have a proper tower, as this was removed in the early 19th century. Instead, a so-called bell chamber was built in red bricks, giving Torsted Church its characteristic appearance, which is partially whitewashed and partially brick. The bell itself dates back to the 15th century. The ringing is still done manually via a rope from the ground.
The baptismal font is original and is likely older than the church. It is made of granite with four carved lion heads that peer around the church.
From the Middle Ages, a crucifix and the altarpiece exist. The altarpiece was absent from the church for a while, as it was part of an exhibition in The Old Town in Aarhus, but it returned to its rightful place in 1972. The beautiful and colorful pulpit is from the Renaissance in Tuscan style. The paint in the picture fields has often been updated with new colors and motifs.
Around the church
Torsted Church rises high in the landscape, on top of a ridge. The location of the church is unique in the Horsens area. The churchyard spreads over the sides of the hill, and the changes in terrain have been utilized to create a very beautiful setting. The church is separated from the surrounding grassy slopes by a fine boulder wall. There is a 16-meter drop to Torsted Stream at the bottom of the slope. The hills are beautiful and are popular as a sledding hill in winter.
A bridge leads over the stream to an area with football fields, which are connected by a very extensive trail system linking Torsted with Bankager amidst the many residential streets. We definitely recommend taking a walk here when you visit the church.
Would you like to visit Torsted Church?
Torsted Church is open Tuesday to Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM. You are welcome to drop by. The church may be inaccessible due to church activities.
More historical attractions
Kystlandet offers many exciting historical attractions, from ancient times to industrial history. From museums to architectural works and natural attractions. On this page, you can find inspiration for historically interesting experiences near Horsens, Odder, and Juelsminde.
