More

The Jelling monuments, which include the burial mounds, the church, and the runic stones, became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994 and are considered a quintessential example of Viking Age transition to Christianity. The site is historically significant as it marks the creation of Denmark as a nation, the first mention of the name "Denmark," and the shift from Norse paganism to Christianity, as famously illustrated on the "Denmark's baptismal certificate" (the larger runic stone). The modern Kongernes Jelling museum provides an interpretive experience, showcasing information about the Viking kings, the transition to Christianity, and the area's impressive construction.  

About the site and its UNESCO status

• Significance: The monuments illustrate the transition from the old Norse religion to Christianity and the unification of Denmark into a single kingdom around the 10th century. 

Key features: The site consists of two large burial mounds, the original Jelling church, and the two famous runic stones. 

UNESCO listing: The monuments were added to the World Heritage list in 1994, recognizing their outstanding universal value. 

The monuments and their stories

• The Jelling stones: These are the central focus of the site.

  • The smaller stone: Was erected by King Gorm as a memorial to his wife, Thyra.

  • The larger stone: Was erected by Harald "Bluetooth" to commemorate his parents and "bring Denmark and Norway together and made them Christian". This stone features the earliest image of Christ in Scandinavia and is on the inside of every Danish passport.

• The mounds and church:

  • The mounds: One is believed to be the burial place of King Gorm.

  • The church: Harald moved his father Gorm's bones to the church for Christian reburial. 

The museum and visitor experience

• Kongernes Jelling: This modern museum is the visitor center located at the site. 

Exhibits: The museum provides information on the Viking kings, the history of Denmark, and daily Viking life. 

The site today: The original grandeur of the monument area has been recreated with white tiles and posts that mark where the ancient palisades and long-houses once stood, creating an open-air experience. 

Accessibility: The site is easily accessible by train and bus, with the museum being a short walk from the station.