Crypt Church of Our Lady - Opbaarhuis op de oude gemeentelijke begraafplaats in Doorn.
Cemetery house where people who had died of an infectious disease were laid out in the past.
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Crypt Church of Our Lady

4.5
·330 reviews·Aarhus, Denmark

Explore Denmark's oldest preserved room in the 11th-century crypt, alongside a 14th-century church with medieval art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Midday

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Crypt Church of Our Lady - Opbaarhuis op de oude gemeentelijke begraafplaats in Doorn.
Cemetery house where people who had died of an infectious disease were laid out in the past.

Crypt Church of Our Lady

Best Time

Weekday Midday

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Denmark's oldest preserved room in the 11th-century crypt, alongside a 14th-century church with medieval art.

4.5
(330 reviews)

"A journey through centuries, from the ancient crypt to medieval art, offering profound peace."

Vertical photo
TIP

Scan the QR Code

Listen to fascinating historical info via QR code at the crypt stairs. :iphone:

Mind the Real Candles

Candles are real! Be cautious of flames, especially in the peaceful crypt. :fire:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Crypt

The Ancient Crypt

Beneath the main church

Descend to the oldest preserved room in Denmark, a serene crypt from around 1060. Meditate or find peace in this historical sanctuary.

Restored Wall Paintings

Restored Wall Paintings

Inside the church

Marvel at the beautifully restored medieval wall paintings that adorn the church, offering a glimpse into its rich artistic past.

15th Century Altar

15th Century Altar

Inside the church

Gaze upon the intricate altar from the early 15th century, depicting life, cruelty, pain, and hope.

Copy of Oldest Crucifix

Copy of Oldest Crucifix

In the crypt

See a replica of the oldest found crucifix, symbolizing the early Christianization of Vikings and the blend of cultures.

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Uncover Layers of History

Explore a church built in the 14th century, with a crypt dating back to around 1060. Discover ancient wall paintings and a copy of the oldest crucifix found in Denmark. It's a journey through centuries of faith and architecture.

Peaceful Exploration

Visit during midday on a weekday for a tranquil experience. You might have the church and its fascinating underground crypt all to yourself. Take your time to absorb the history and serene atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Weekday Midday
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Friday Afternoon
Why
Quiet contemplation
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Finally at napuntahan ko rin to Grabe ang ganda😭 #church #catholicchurch #sunkenshrineofourladyoflourdes #ourladyoflourdes #pampanga
@heididump27
245.6K likes • 4.5M views

Scan the QR Code

Listen to fascinating historical info via QR code at the crypt stairs. :iphone:

Mind the Real Candles

Candles are real! Be cautious of flames, especially in the peaceful crypt. :fire:

This church in La Union has an underground crypt! 😱 The Basilica of Our Lady of Charity is where Manuel Luna, one of the Luna brothers alongside Juan and Antonio, was buried right after dying of an acute disease. As in many churches, you can light candles with different colors, each representing a specific intention. What color candle would you light? 🕯
wheninmanila
671 likes • 24.8K views
Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Birhen ng Antipolo) @ Crypt Church, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington DC #USAtrip #GurzTravelogue #DorAmie #KeepTheFaith
greggesquivel
1 likes • 11 views

Brochures Available

Find brochures in Danish, English, and German inside the church. :book:

Explore the Park

Relax in the nice park with a cozy atmosphere and church views. :park:

REMEMBERANCES eller vi er to-tre tårer i en sang at @aarhusfestuge August 2023 ~ During Aarhus Festuge 2023, we filled up the ancient crypt of Church of our Lady with sound, words and movement ~ Text @scary_fie Costumes & set design @__sarah__may Performers @rasmuselbo & @katrinegrarupelbo Jewellery @tourell Curated by @rudkjerstein Idea & music by @katrinegrarupelbo Supported by @statenskunst...
katrinegrarupelbo
84 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Scan the QR Code

Listen to fascinating historical info via QR code at the crypt stairs. :iphone:

Mind the Real Candles

Candles are real! Be cautious of flames, especially in the peaceful crypt. :fire:

Brochures Available

Find brochures in Danish, English, and German inside the church. :book:

Explore the Park

Relax in the nice park with a cozy atmosphere and church views. :park:

Visit the Monastery Garden

Peek over the wall to see the beautiful garden of the adjacent elderly home. :flower:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(330 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Crypt Church of Our Lady for its incredible historical depth, particularly the ancient crypt dating back to 1060 AD, which is described as a peaceful and unique experience. The restored wall paintings and 15th-century altar are also highlighted as significant artistic and historical features. Some find the quiet, almost solitary visits during weekdays to be a major draw.

"Three churches in one. The Crypt Church is really cool and a bit spooky. The Monastery Church definitely worth the visit. We learned a lot about the church's history in Aarhus."

Beth Shelly

"Very beautiful church with a crypt church underneath. Well worth the walk to explore this church"

Jason Frattini

"This church was in earlier history, part of the monastery placed in the building beside the church.
The church is really worth a visit because it houses surprising history.
Today is the building beside the church, a home for elderly. You can look over the surrounding wall and see the beautiful garden.
At the church, there is a nice park with a cosy atmosphere and a view of the church. You can sit here and rest. There are toilets in the church.
Inside the church, you will find brochures in Danish, English, and German.
Our Lady Church was built in the 14th century as a monastery church.
Old wall paintings are restaurated.
The altar from the start of the 15. Century is a picture of life, cruelty, pain, and maybe a hope for a coming heaven.
Under the building, is there a cryptchurch from around year 1060. It was found in 1955.
Steps are leading you down down to this oldest preserved room in Denmark. It's a phantastic place to turn inside, to medidate or be in peace.
The cross in the crypt is a copy of the oldest found crucifix. Around the year 1100. Early christianisation of vikings is this cross marked by both cultures."

ottmar schäfer

What People Like

Ancient crypt's atmosphere
Historical depth
Restored wall paintings

What People Dislike

Can be very quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Crypt Church of Our Lady is located in the city center of Aarhus. It's easily accessible by public transport or a pleasant walk from the city's main areas. Many visitors find it convenient to combine with exploring other city attractions. Reddit

While specific parking details can vary, the church is in a central urban area. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking garages or consider using public transportation to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Absolutely! If you're staying in or near the city center, walking to the Crypt Church of Our Lady is a great way to experience Aarhus. The church is part of the city's historical core. Reddit

As it's centrally located, several bus routes likely stop near the church. It's recommended to use a local transit app or website to find the most convenient stops based on your starting point. Reddit

Yes, the Church of Our Lady is one of Aarhus's largest churches and is situated in the city center, making it relatively easy to locate. Look for signs directing you to major churches or historical sites. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main church and its crypt is generally free, though donations are often appreciated. Visitors have reported having the place to themselves during off-peak hours. Reddit

The church is typically open during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's best to check locally or look for signs upon arrival, as some visitors have found it open around midday on Fridays. Reddit

There is usually no separate admission fee for the crypt. It's considered part of the church's historical complex and is accessible to visitors, often with informational materials available. Reddit

While weekend visits are possible, the church might be busier with services or events. Weekday visits, especially midday, are recommended for a more peaceful and less crowded experience. Reddit

The crypt is a sacred and historical space. Visitors are asked to be respectful, quiet, and mindful of the real candles. The stairs leading down are a key access point. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautifully restored medieval wall paintings, a significant 15th-century altar, and informative brochures. The main draw is the access to the ancient crypt below. Reddit

The crypt, dating back to around 1060, is the oldest preserved room in Denmark. It houses a copy of the oldest found crucifix and offers a unique, peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Reddit

Yes, the historical architecture, wall paintings, and the atmospheric crypt make it a great spot for photography. Be mindful of any restrictions during services and always be respectful. TikTok

Yes, restrooms are available within the church premises, which is a convenient amenity for visitors exploring the site. Reddit

Originally built as a monastery church in the 14th century, it was later expanded and served various roles, including a hospital. Its crypt dates back to the 11th century, making it a site of immense historical depth. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient crypt itself offers a unique, atmospheric setting. The restored wall paintings and the 15th-century altar inside the church are also highly photogenic. Don't forget the exterior architecture! TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be discreet and respectful, especially if services are taking place. Avoid flash photography in the crypt to preserve its ambiance. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos in the crypt, but remember it's a very old and sacred space. Focus on capturing the historical atmosphere rather than intrusive shots. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for the crypt due to its subterranean nature. A wide-angle lens can help capture the enclosed space effectively. TikTok

Many visitors are drawn to the contrast between the modern world and the ancient stones of the crypt. Capturing the details of the wall paintings and the altar also yields great results. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Crypt Church of Our Lady offers a unique historical adventure for families. The ancient crypt is like stepping into a secret underground world that can spark children's imaginations. While the historical context might be complex, the sheer age and mystery of the crypt can be captivating. Encourage them to look for the 'oldest crucifix' and imagine life centuries ago. Remember to keep an eye on them near the real candles and the stairs. Reddit

Consider using the available brochures or the QR code for audio information to make the visit more engaging. The park outside also provides a nice space for kids to run around and decompress after exploring the church and its underground levels. It's a great way to introduce children to history in a tangible, memorable way.

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Crypt Church of Our Lady is a treasure trove. You can delve into Denmark's early Christianization, explore the oldest preserved room in Denmark (the crypt from ~1060), and examine the 15th-century altar and restored wall paintings. The church's evolution from a monastery church to its current form offers a fascinating case study in architectural and societal changes over centuries. Reddit

Don't miss the details like the copy of the oldest found crucifix, symbolizing the cultural fusion of Viking and Christian influences. The historical significance extends to its post-Reformation use as a hospital, adding another layer to its story. The availability of multilingual brochures enhances the learning experience.

🧘 Solo Travelers & Contemplatives

Solo travelers seeking peace and reflection will find the Crypt Church of Our Lady to be an ideal sanctuary. Visiting during off-peak hours, especially midday on a weekday, can grant you the rare opportunity to experience the church and its ancient crypt in complete solitude. Reddit

The serene atmosphere of the crypt, with its historical weight and quietude, is perfect for meditation or simply soaking in the profound sense of history. The church itself offers a tranquil space to sit, reflect, and appreciate the centuries of devotion that have taken place within its walls. The nearby park also provides a peaceful spot to rest and contemplate.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The Crypt's Origins

The Crypt Church of Our Lady is a remarkable testament to layered history, with its most ancient section, the crypt, dating back to approximately 1060 AD. This subterranean space is considered the oldest preserved room in Denmark, offering a profound connection to the region's early Christian past. Discovered during renovations in 1955, the crypt was likely part of an earlier church structure predating the current 14th-century building. It’s a place designed for quiet contemplation, where visitors can feel the weight of centuries.

Within this ancient chamber, you'll find a copy of the oldest found crucifix, dating from around 1100 AD. This artifact is significant as it embodies the early Christianization of the Vikings, showcasing a blend of both cultures in its design. The atmosphere in the crypt is often described as peaceful and even a little spooky, making it a unique highlight for many visitors. The stairs leading down are the only access, adding to the sense of discovery. Reddit

Architectural Evolution and Artistic Treasures

The Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke) itself, as it stands today, was primarily constructed in the 14th century as a monastery church. Over time, it underwent significant expansions, including the addition of a large tower between 1250 and 1500. Originally known as St. Nicholas' Church, it became the Church of Our Lady after the Reformation and was integrated with a Dominican priory.

Inside the church, visitors can admire restored wall paintings that bring medieval artistry back to life. The altar, dating from the early 15th century, is a striking piece depicting themes of life, cruelty, pain, and hope. These artistic elements, combined with the church's historical narrative, make it a rich destination for those interested in religious art and architecture. Brochures in Danish, English, and German are available to help visitors understand the significance of these features. Reddit

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