Bach B Minor Mass at Holmens Kirke
Experience Bach's monumental masterpiece performed by the Copenhagen Soloists in Holmens Kirke.
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Holmens Church Copenhagen
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Holmens Church in Copenhagen is the primary church for the Danish Navy and an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture. The building was originally constructed in 1563 as an anchor forge for the Royal Fleet under King Frederick II. In 1619, Christian IV ordered its conversion into a church to accommodate the growing population of the islands of Bremerholm. The church was expanded into a cruciform shape in 1641, giving it its current layout. The house of worship is famous as the final resting place for significant Danish naval heroes like Niels Juel and Tordenskiold, whose monuments are visible in the chapel. The interior is noted for its magnificent oak altarpiece and pulpit, both carved by Abel Schrøder the Younger in 1661. The church largely escaped Copenhagen's major fires, thus preserving an exceptionally authentic historical atmosphere. In 1967, it was the site of the wedding of the future Queen Margrethe II.
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A postcard from Holmens Church Copenhagen
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- Highlights: Church of Holmen · Børsbroen · Visit Børsen
- Nearby: Sondermarken (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 61 | 48 | 43 | 34 | 47 | 64 | 69 | 83 | 54 | 70 | 62 | 63 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Holmens Church in Copenhagen can be visited when no service is taking place. The interior is usually accessible to visitors.
Typical hours
Churches in Denmark are often open to visitors during the day, with limited hours. Services and events may affect access.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. During services, photography is prohibited.
Time needed
About 30 to 45 minutes are sufficient for a visit. The maritime history of the church makes a walk-through worthwhile.
Combine with
Combine a visit with a stroll through nearby Nyhavn or to Amalienborg Palace. The church is centrally located in Copenhagen.
Getting there
The church is easily reached on foot or by public transport. The nearest bus stop and metro station are a few minutes' walk away.
Insider tip
Ask during a guided tour about the connection to the Danish Navy. The church holds many stories about famous sailors.
Geography
Facts
- Original forge built in the year 1563
- Conversion into a church in 1619
- Expansion to cruciform shape from 1641 to 1643
- Magnificent altarpiece by Abel Schrøder (1661)
- Wedding of Queen Margrethe II in 1967
- Burial place of naval hero Tordenskiold
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Sights in the town Holmens Church Copenhagen (10)
Visit Børsen🏛 museum
Visitor center at the stock exchange. Information about the building's history.
🌐 sammenomborsen.dk🕒 Mo-Fr 13:00-18:00; Sa-Su 11:00-16:00
The Stock Exchange building
Building in Copenhagen. Historic stock exchange with a distinctive spire.
Kunstbiblioteket
Art library in Copenhagen. Collection of art books and magazines.
Lykkemuseet🏛 museum
Museum in Copenhagen. Exhibition about happiness.
Christian D. IV's Bro
Bridge in Denmark. Named after King Christian IV.
Magasin du Nord Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Denmark. History of the Magasin du Nord department store.
Christiansborg Palace Tower
Observation tower at Christiansborg Palace. View over Copenhagen.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What role does Holmens Church play for the Navy?
It is the official church of the Royal Danish Navy.
Where in Copenhagen is the church located?
It is located in the city center, opposite Christiansborg Palace.
What was the building originally?
It was originally built in 1563 as an anchor smithy.
Can you visit the burial chapels?
Yes, famous naval heroes like Niels Juel and Tordenskiold are buried there.
Is the church open to tourists?
Yes, usually daily from 10:00 to 16:00, except during ceremonies.
Holmens Church Copenhagen: where is it located?
Holmens Church Copenhagen is located in Denmark.
Holmens Church Copenhagen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Church of Holmen, Børsbroen, Visit Børsen.
Holmens Church Copenhagen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Holmens Church Copenhagen: why is it worth visiting?
Holmens Church in Copenhagen is the primary church for the Danish Navy and an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture.
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