Jelling

Jelling, one of the most beautiful historical sites in Denmark that has a number of noteworthy 10th century artifacts. Originally the royal residence of Gorm the Old, Jelling is an important aspect of Danish history, especially since this Viking king was the start of the royal line that still dominates the country today.

Gorm and his son, Harald I Bluetooth, created various monuments at Jelling, including the largest grave mounds in Denmark. These are still quite well kept and can be seen at the location. Gorm was buried in the larger one, while the second is supposed to have been abandoned.

At Jelling, there are also two runic stones, the greater of which is considered to have been constructed by Harald and the smaller by Gorm before him. The Jelling Stones are runic stones that stand in front of Jelling Church, or 'Jelling Kirke,' which dates back to circa 1100.

Jelling Kirke was the third church built on the site, the first being a wooden structure built by Harald, who later converted to Christianity. A figure of Jesus on one of the stones also attests to this conversion.

Visit the Viking kings' home and marvel at the amazing monuments, which include runic stones, a church, and the largest burial mounds known from the Nordic Viking period. The Jelling site contains a tourist center called Kongernes Jelling, which houses a number of displays that illustrate the narrative of the monuments.