Attraction Guide: Kongernes Jelling, Billund, Denmark

Kongernes Jelling Guide

Step Back in Time: Discover Viking History at Kongernes Jelling! Guide

Embark on a journey through Viking history at Kongernes Jelling (Royal Jelling), a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Billund, Denmark. This significant historical site is home to two massive burial mounds, rune stones erected by King Harald Bluetooth, and a modern visitor center that brings the Viking age to life. Explore the origins of Denmark and learn about the transition from Norse paganism to Christianity. Jelling was a royal power center during the Viking Age, particularly in the 10th century. King Gorm the Old and his son, Harald Bluetooth, played pivotal roles in shaping Denmark's history. The two large burial mounds are believed to be the final resting places of Gorm and his wife, Thyra. Harald Bluetooth erected the Jelling Stones, which are considered some of the most important Viking Age monuments in Scandinavia. The larger stone depicts the earliest known image of Christ in Denmark and commemorates Harald's conversion of the Danes to Christianity. At Kongernes Jelling, you can explore the burial mounds, examine the rune stones (including replicas inside the visitor center to protect the originals), and delve into the Viking Age through interactive exhibits and displays. The visitor center offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Vikings, their beliefs, and their impact on Danish history. Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into the site's significance. You can also walk the reconstructed palisade that once surrounded the area.