Holmens Kirke Copenhagen
A historic 17th-century church, once an anchor smithy, now a serene sanctuary with stunning maritime artifacts and royal crypts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Holmens Kirke Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 17th-century church, once an anchor smithy, now a serene sanctuary with stunning maritime artifacts and royal crypts.
"A stunning historical cathedral and a peaceful 'hidden gem' with no entrance fee."
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit during off-peak hours for a truly serene experience. It's a hidden gem with fewer visitors!
🚢 Admire the Ship Models
Look up! The ceiling features impressive model ships, a nod to its naval history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Altar and Pulpit
Main Nave
Intricately carved oak altarpiece and pulpit, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance.

Hanging Model Ship Replicas
Ceiling
Symbolic of its maritime past, these detailed model ships hang from the barrel-vaulted ceiling, a unique sight.

The Royal Crypt
Beneath the Church
Discover the solemn beauty of the crypt, a significant historical burial site accessible through unassuming doors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
A Glimpse into History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit during off-peak hours for a truly serene experience. It's a hidden gem with fewer visitors!
🚢 Admire the Ship Models
Look up! The ceiling features impressive model ships, a nod to its naval history.
🏛️ Explore the Crypt
Don't miss the stunning crypt; it's a fascinating historical space.
🎶 Check for Concerts
Holmens Kirke hosts incredible concerts, from organ recitals to classical performances.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit during off-peak hours for a truly serene experience. It's a hidden gem with fewer visitors!
🚢 Admire the Ship Models
Look up! The ceiling features impressive model ships, a nod to its naval history.
🏛️ Explore the Crypt
Don't miss the stunning crypt; it's a fascinating historical space.
🎶 Check for Concerts
Holmens Kirke hosts incredible concerts, from organ recitals to classical performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Holmens Kirke as a stunning historical cathedral and a peaceful 'hidden gem' with no entrance fee. Highlights include the intricate altar, pulpit, and unique model ships, as well as the solemn crypt. Some note that it can be less crowded than other major attractions, offering a welcome, warm respite.
"A stunning historical cathedral associated with the Royal Danish Navy."
Dmitry Zinger
"Beautiful Church ( hidden gem, noone else there when we visited ). Stunning crypt at end of the main building ( just go through doors ). It was also so warm on a very cold Copenhagen day. Very welcome stop."
Arthur
"Entrance fee is not charged. The altar and pulpit are intricate and well decorated. The pipe organ is brilliant."
Percy Chang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Holmens Kirke is conveniently located in central Copenhagen, easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from many central attractions like Nyhavn and Christiansborg Palace. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll from the city center, or you can take a bus to nearby stops.
Yes, Holmens Kirke is surprisingly close to Copenhagen Airport (CPH). It's only about a 10-minute drive or a short metro/train ride away, making it a feasible stop for those with layovers or arriving early.
Absolutely! Holmens Kirke is located just across the Holmens Kanal from Nyhavn, making it a very easy and scenic walk. It's a great way to combine two popular Copenhagen sights.
If you're in the city center, walking is often the most enjoyable way to reach Holmens Kirke. Alternatively, several bus routes stop nearby, and it's also a pleasant bike ride, which is a popular mode of transport in Copenhagen.
While the main church area is generally accessible, some older parts like the crypt might have limited accessibility. It's advisable to check with the church directly for specific details regarding ramps or elevators if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Holmens Kirke. It is open to the public for free, making it an accessible cultural and historical site for all visitors.
Opening hours can vary, especially around holidays or for special events. It's best to check the official church website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours on weekdays and Saturdays.
Sundays are typically reserved for church services. While you might be able to see the exterior, interior visits for tourism purposes are usually limited or not permitted during service times. Always verify the schedule beforehand.
Since there is no entrance fee for general visits, advance booking is not required. However, if you plan to attend a specific concert or event, tickets will likely need to be purchased in advance.
Photography is generally allowed inside Holmens Kirke, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors. Avoid using flash photography, especially during services, to maintain the solemn atmosphere.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a stunning carved oak altarpiece and pulpit, a brilliant pipe organ, and the unique sight of model ship replicas hanging from the barrel-vaulted ceiling. The crypt is also a significant feature.
While it's a significant historical site, Holmens Kirke is often described as a 'hidden gem' and can be less crowded than other major Copenhagen attractions, offering a more peaceful experience.
Originally built as an anchor smithy in 1562, it was converted into a church in 1619 to serve the growing population and the naval personnel. It's deeply connected to the Royal Danish Navy.
Information on guided tours can be limited. It's best to check the church's official website or inquire upon arrival. However, many visitors find it easy to explore and appreciate the church's features independently.
The name Jehovah, or its Hebrew counterpart, appears in large gold letters inside the church and on a commemorative plaque dated 1661, referencing Psalms 100:4.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Holmens Kirke is located in a central area of Copenhagen with many dining options nearby. You can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants within walking distance, catering to various tastes and budgets.
The area offers a range of culinary experiences, from traditional Danish pastries and coffee at local bakeries to international cuisine and modern Danish dishes at nearby restaurants.
Several charming cafes are located within a short walk of Holmens Kirke. BUKA bakery is often recommended for coffee and pastries, offering a delightful break.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like bakeries for pastries and sandwiches, or explore street food markets like Reffen (though it requires a bit more travel) for diverse and budget-friendly meals.
While not directly adjacent, popular Copenhagen eateries like Pluto, Spuntino, and Reffen Street Food Market are mentioned in guides that include Holmens Kirke, suggesting they are part of a broader exploration of the city.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially its historical facade, offers great shots. Inside, the intricately carved altar, pulpit, and the unique model ships hanging from the ceiling are prime subjects. The crypt also provides a distinct photographic opportunity.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside Holmens Kirke. However, it's crucial to be respectful, especially during services, and avoid using flash to preserve the atmosphere and protect the interior.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow on the exterior and potentially filtering through the windows. Weekday mornings can also be good for capturing the architecture with fewer people around.
The barrel-vaulted ceiling, the detailed carvings on the altar and pulpit, the large pipe organ, and the hanging model ships are all distinctive features that make for compelling photographs.
While royal events do occur at Holmens Kirke, photography of the Royal Family is subject to strict protocols and is usually not permitted for general visitors during official ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🎶 Music Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Maritime Legacy: From Smithy to Sanctuary
The church's architecture and interior decor bear witness to this unique heritage. The prominent display of model ship replicas hanging from the barrel-vaulted ceiling serves as a constant reminder of its naval past. These intricate models are not merely decorative; they symbolize the seafaring traditions and the importance of the navy to Denmark's history and identity. Visitors often find these maritime artifacts a captivating and unexpected element within a church setting.
Beyond the ships, the church houses significant historical elements like the Royal Crypt, where notable figures, including naval officers and royalty, are interred. The presence of the divine name 'Jehovah' in Hebrew and Latin inscriptions further adds layers of historical and religious significance, connecting the church to centuries of faith and tradition.
Experiencing Holmens Kirke: Beyond the Architecture
Holmens Kirke is also a renowned venue for classical music performances. Its excellent acoustics make it an ideal location for organ concerts, choral performances, and opera recitals. Events featuring composers like Dvorak or Purcell have been held here, drawing audiences seeking a unique cultural experience in a beautiful setting. Checking the schedule for concerts can add a significant dimension to a visit, transforming it from a sightseeing stop into an immersive cultural event.
The church's role in national commemorations, such as events marking the anniversary of the war in Ukraine, also highlights its importance as a civic and spiritual center. These occasions underscore its continued relevance in contemporary Danish society, often featuring moving musical interpretations and solemn reflections.
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