In the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, Viborg Cathedral rises with its two characteristic towers – one of Denmark’s most significant church buildings and a landmark that has shaped Viborg for nearly 1,000 years. Here, faith and power, art and human destiny meet in stories that have left lasting marks on Danish history.
Erik Klipping was crowned King of Denmark in Viborg Cathedral in 1259 – and later buried here after his dramatic death in the barn at Finnerup.
The murder remains one of the great unsolved mysteries of Danish history. A dark gravestone near the altar rail marks the place where, according to tradition, the king was laid to rest.
Beneath the cathedral lies one of Denmark’s oldest preserved Romanesque crypts – almost 900 years old.
In the small surrounding chapels, you can discover a rare granite sarcophagus carved from a single block of stone, as well as Saint Kjeld’s well, where the sick and blind were said to have found healing.
Viborg Cathedral is especially famous for its vivid frescoes covering walls and vaults throughout the church.
The 42 monumental works were created by artist Joakim Skovgaard in the early 1900s and make up the world’s largest complete church decoration executed by a single artist.
Skovgaard’s masterpiece transformed the cathedral – and later inspired the founding of the Skovgaard Museum as a tribute to his artistic legacy.
It is possible to visit Viborg Cathedral during the church’s regular opening hours. Admission costs 10 DKK, payable at the entrance.
Unless a religious service is taking place, Viborg Cathedral is usually open for visitors:
1 May to 30 September:
11.00 am – 5.00 pm, Sundays and public holidays 12.00 pm – 5.00 pm.
1 October to 30 April:
11.00 am – 3.00 pm, Sundays and public holidays 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm.
