Roskilde Cathedral

A Comprehensive Guide to Roskilde Cathedral

Welcome to Roskilde Domkirke (Roskilde Cathedral), the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site and final resting place for many Danish monarchs. This impressive structure, located in the charming city of Roskilde on Zealand island, is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and artistry.

This guide will delve into the fascinating world of Roskilde Cathedral, exploring its rich past, architectural marvels, stunning artwork, and the captivating stories hidden within its walls.

A Bit of History:

  • The Birthplace of Kings: Built in the 12th century, Roskilde Cathedral stands as a majestic testament to the power and grandeur of the Danish monarchy.

  • From Brick and Stone to a Symbol of Power: The cathedral’s construction began in 1170 and continued for over 200 years. Its foundations are rooted in the history of Denmark itself, built on the site of a Viking burial ground.

  • The Vikings and Beyond: While the original church was built as a simple Romanesque structure, it later evolved into the magnificent Gothic masterpiece we see today.

Architectural Wonders:

  • Gothic Grandeur: Roskilde Cathedral is a stunning example of early Danish brick Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1170 with the intention of creating a grand cathedral from the local brick and mortar.

  • A Royal Legacy: The cathedral’s initial Romanesque design was eventually abandoned for a more ambitious project, a testament to the changing architectural styles and the desire for a grander expression of faith (and royal power).

  • The Rise of the “Cathedral Style”: This shift in architectural vision reflected the growing influence of the Catholic Church in 12th-century Denmark.

  • Renaissance Influence: The cathedral’s chapels were later built and decorated by Danish monarchs, showcasing their devotion and reflecting the architectural styles popular during that era.

  • The “Viking Age” to “Early Renaissance”:

The Cathedral’s style transitioned from a Romanesque design in the 12th century to a more elaborate Gothic structure in the 13th-16th centuries, with notable additions and changes reflecting evolving architectural tastes: * The Viking Age: The cathedral’s architecture was initially planned as simple brick and stone Romanesque style.

  • A Cathedral Evolving: The “Viking Age” part of the structure stands today as a reminder of this era, but the initial design proved too ambitious. It was only completed in the early 16th century, with the final touch being the addition of a magnificent new tower that housed the church bells and served as a symbol of the town’s connection to the Vikings who once roamed these lands.

  • The “Cathedral Style”:

This style is characterized by: * High vaulted ceilings: The soaring heights of the cathedral’s nave, with its intricate ribs and vaults, were a testament to the ambition of its founders.

  • Roskilde Cathedral’s Evolution: Over time, the original “Early Renaissance” design was abandoned and replaced with the “Late Gothic” style we see in the main building.

    • Gothic Influence: This grand cathedral features soaring arches, pointed vaults, and elaborate stained-glass windows.

  • The “Gothic” Period: The cathedral’s builders sought to create a structure that would reflect the grandeur of the Christian faith and the city’s status as a royal center.

Key Architectural Features:

  • Cathedral Towers:

The towering spire of the cathedral is a prominent feature, visible from afar. It’s a symbol of Roskilde Cathedral’s transition from its initial design to the “Late Gothic” style.

  • Gothic Arches: The builders wanted to make the tower taller and add more grandeur, but the limited technology of the time made it impractical.

They decided to build a new church with a grander design, but the “Cathedral Style” of the building was not suited for the weight and complexity of adding a towering spire.

  • Gothic Architecture: The tall, slender arches of the cathedral’s nave are characteristic of Gothic architecture, which emerged in Europe during the 12th century.

  • The “Nave”:

While the original “Cathedral” style was not completed, the tower is a remnant of that era. It’s a majestic structure with a towering spire and elaborate carvings.

  • Gothic Vaulting:

The intricate vaulting system used in the cathedral’s nave reflects the advanced architectural techniques used in the “Gothic” period.

This magnificent cathedral stands as a symbol of Danish history and religion, showcasing the evolution of these styles over centuries.