Church of Our Saviour | Copenhagen

The Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) is one of the most iconic churches in Copenhagen, known for its distinctive baroque architecture and the famous spiral spire that rises high above the city. Located in the Christianshavn district, this church is not only a place of worship but also a popular landmark and a testament to Copenhagen's religious and architectural history.

Overview

• Name: Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke)
• Location: Sankt Annæ Gade 29, Copenhagen, Denmark
• Denomination: Lutheran
• Architectural Style: Baroque
• Founded: 1695
• Completed: 1695 (tower completed in 1699)
• Architect: Lambert van Haven (main design)

History

The Church of Our Saviour was constructed in the late 17th century and has since become a major religious and cultural symbol in Copenhagen.

Founding and Early Construction:

• The church was originally commissioned as part of the development of the Christianshavn district, which at the time was a new area of Copenhagen being developed for the growing population.
• Construction began in 1682 under the design of Lambert van Haven, one of the leading architects of the period. The church was completed in 1695, although the tower, which became its most famous feature, was finished a few years later in 1699.

Architectural Significance:

• The church was designed in the baroque style, with its grand architecture reflecting the influence of Dutch and German baroque churches. Its impressive façade, large interior, and especially the distinctive spire make it stand out in the Copenhagen skyline.
• The church was intended to serve as a parish church for the growing population of Christianshavn, and it has continued in this role for centuries.

Renovations:

• Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations to maintain its structural integrity and preserve its beauty. Notably, the church was damaged by a fire in the early 19th century, but it was quickly restored.

Modern Role:

• Today, the Church of Our Saviour is an active Lutheran church, hosting regular services and religious events. It also remains a significant historical and cultural landmark, drawing many visitors due to its architectural beauty and location near other attractions such as Christiansborg Palace and Nyhavn.

Architecture

The Church of Our Saviour is renowned for its baroque architecture, which blends grandeur with intricate details. The church features a large interior with a striking altar and a beautifully designed tower.

Exterior:

• Baroque Facade: The church features a large baroque-style facade with elegant columns and pilasters. The overall design is symmetrical and adorned with decorative stonework.
• Spire: The church's most distinctive feature is its spiral spire, which rises 90 meters (295 feet) above the city and is topped with a golden globe. The spire is an architectural masterpiece, with a unique twisting design, and it is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable landmarks.
• Domed Roof: The church has a large, domed roof that contributes to the grandeur of its silhouette, visible from various points around Copenhagen.

Interior:

• The interior of the church is grand yet inviting, with a focus on elegant simplicity that allows the architecture to shine. The space is defined by its baroque altar, wooden pews, and large paintings of biblical scenes, contributing to the church's spiritual atmosphere.
• The pulpit and altar are beautifully carved in wood and are located at the eastern end of the church. The altar is often the focal point of religious services, where significant rituals such as Holy Communion are performed.
• The ceiling of the church is vaulted and richly decorated, and the high windows allow natural light to fill the interior, creating a peaceful ambiance during services.

The Tower:

• The tower is the focal point of the church’s design, rising above the building and providing a visual landmark across the city. The tower is a baroque architectural masterpiece, featuring an unusual spiral design. The golden globe at the top of the tower is a symbol of Copenhagen's religious and historical identity.
• Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy breathtaking views of Copenhagen, including Christianshavn, Nyhavn, and the harbor.

Notable Features

The Spiral Spire:

• The spire is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic structures and is unique in its design. The twisting spire represents an evolution of baroque architecture and provides an unmistakable silhouette on the skyline of Copenhagen.

The Church Organ:

• The church houses a historic organ, which is often used during services and concerts. The organ pipes are intricately designed and contribute to the acoustics of the church, enhancing the music during services.

The Interior Paintings:

• Several large paintings adorn the church, depicting scenes from the Bible. These paintings add depth and beauty to the interior, further emphasizing the church’s spiritual and religious significance.

The Baptismal Font:

• The baptismal font, which is located at the back of the church, is a beautifully carved piece of artwork that has been used for centuries in the baptismal rituals of the church.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

• The church is generally open to visitors during the day, with services held on Sundays and religious holidays. It's important to check the church's schedule for any special events or closures due to religious services.

Admission:

• Free entry is often allowed for general visits, though donations are encouraged to support the church’s maintenance. There may be an admission fee for climbing the spire or for special tours.

Climbing the Spire:

• Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Copenhagen. The climb is steep, with over 400 steps, but the view from the top is a rewarding experience, offering a stunning perspective of the city and its landmarks.

Services:

• The church offers regular Lutheran services on Sundays, and it is a popular place for visitors who wish to attend a traditional Danish service. It also hosts special services during Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter.

Nearby Attractions

1. Christianshavn: The Church of Our Saviour is located in the Christianshavn district, which is known for its vibrant cultural scene, restaurants, and modern architecture. The area is also home to Copenhagen’s famous canals.
2. Nyhavn: A short distance away, Nyhavn is Copenhagen's famous harbor, lined with colorful buildings, restaurants, and bars.
3. Christiansborg Palace: The seat of the Danish Parliament, Christiansborg Palace, is nearby and an important historic and political landmark.
4. The Royal Library: Known as the Black Diamond, this modern architectural masterpiece is not far from the church and houses a large collection of books and manuscripts.

Fun Fact

• The golden globe at the top of the Church of Our Saviour's spire is a symbol of Copenhagen’s unity and its role as a center of culture and faith. The spire itself is considered one of the most beautiful and unique in the world.

Visiting Tips

1. Climb the Spire: If you’re physically able, make sure to climb the tower for an unbeatable view of the city.
2. Respect the Worship Space: As an active place of worship, visitors should be respectful during services and keep noise to a minimum.
3. Check Service Times: If you're visiting on a Sunday or during a major holiday, it’s worth checking if services are taking place, as it may affect visiting times.

The Church of Our Saviour is a must-see in Copenhagen, offering not only beautiful architecture and historical significance but also a stunning view of the city from its iconic spire. Whether you’re visiting for religious purposes, architectural interest, or the breathtaking views, it’s a highlight of the Copenhagen skyline.