Overview:

Ribe Cathedral is the first Gothic cathedral in Scandinavia and is located in the town of Ribe in the Southern region of Denmark. Founded in the late 11th century, the Cathedral was initially constructed in a Romanesque style that featured arched vaults, thick mud walls, and no elaborate sculptures. After progressing through the Middle Ages, the Cathedral was remodeled in the 13th century, receiving its Gothic façade. Ribe Cathedral is home to the Shrine of Saint Ansgar, adorned with baroque silver and brimming with historical significance. The building is home to some of the oldest extant documents in Denmark, including the recent discovery of a royal charter issued by King Valdemar IV of Denmark in 1312. The Cathedral has undergone several renovations since then, most recently in 1735 when it was modified to its present form. The interior contains many works of art, including sculpture, tapestries, and stained glass windows. Today, Ribe Cathedral is a popular destination for both sightseers and worshippers alike, and is recognized as one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in all of Scandinavia. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Denmark
Prominent Features:

Ribe Cathedral is the oldest existing structure in Ribe, Denmark and the city's landmark. The origins of the cathedral date back to the 11th century, when the first stone chapel was constructed. The present day Romanesque basilica was built at the end of the 13th century. Throughout the centuries, the cathedral has undergone numerous refurbishments and modifications, and although some of its original features have been lost in the process, the current building still showcases Gothic and Renaissance elements. The cathedral's most striking feature is its tall, crenellated tower, which is visible from afar and is the highest point of Ribe. The three-story bell tower, built in the late 15th century, houses 14 large bells that ring out in the town center every hour. Inside, the cathedral features a beautiful rib-vaulted nave, filled with sculptures, wall paintings, and stained-glass windows. The crypt, which once served as a resting place for several prominent figures, including bishops, is also worth a visit. Besides the large main hall, the cathedral also has several side chapels, each decorated differently. One of Ribe Cathedral’s most important functions is its museum, where artworks by local and international artists are showcased. Since he tower’s renovation in 2017, visitors can also access the terrace to enjoy breathtaking views of the towns of Ribe and the surrounding Wadden Sea. The terrace also houses a selection of outdoor sculptures created by local artists, mostly inspired by the history and mythology of Ribe. The Ribe Cathedral is a must-see-attraction while visiting the town, and a testament to its beautiful mix of history and art. This national monument of Denmark portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Ribe Cathedral or St. Catherine's Cathedral, is a church in Ribe, the oldest town in Denmark. The history of Ribe Cathedral dates back to 860, when a small wooden church was built on the site. This was destroyed by a fire around 1050 and later rebuilt in stone. Further work on the church was conducted in the Middle Ages, including the expansion of the chancel to the east in 1125, the building of a presbytery chapel in 1250, and the construction of a new nave with two aisles in 1275. The church was substantially renovated and rebuilt in the 15th century, and the tower was added in the early 16th century. During the reign of King Christian IV (1588-1648), the cathedral underwent a period of extensive reform in which it was given a new Gothic interior, with a high altar, a pulpit, and pews. Following further renovation and repairs in the 19th century, a major restoration took place in the late 19th century, and the cathedral was redecorated in 1920. Today, the cathedral is a popular tourist destination and is home to several notable works of art, including a Renaissance crucifix from 1608 and a Baroque altarpiece from 1683. You must visit one of these historical places in Denmark on your Denmark tour

Interesting facts:

1. Ribe Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in Northern Europe, dating back to the 12th century. 2. The north portal of the cathedral is considered to be the oldest example of Gothic architecture in Denmark. 3. The cathedral was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. 4. The main facade includes the sculpture of Bishop Svend, who had the cathedral constructed in 1250. 5. The current spire, which stands at 95 meters, is a reconstruction of an older spire dating from the 17th century. 6. During World War II, Ribe Cathedral served as a refugee shelter for Ribe's Jewish population. 7. Ribe Cathedral has been restored twice since it was originally built, once after a fire in 1580 and again in the 19th century. 8. The cathedral is home to a number of important artworks, including an altarpiece by the renowned Dutch painter Cornelis van Wieringen. 9. For many years, the cathedral was the seat of the archbishop of Denmark. 10. The tower was opened for visitors for the first time in 400 years in 2019. Visit one of the famous monuments of Denmark with your friends and family.