Roskilde Cathedral – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 800 years of royal history

Join Denmark’s kings and queens on a fascinating and awe-inspiring journey through a thousand years of history. Let calm descend beneath the lofty vaults, hear the dragon roar, or count how many lions you can find.

Roskilde Cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Roskilde

With its distinctive spires, Roskilde Cathedral is the burial church of the Danish royal family. More than 40 kings and queens are buried in its richly decorated royal chapels. Here rest both the great Danish builder-king Christian IV and Queen Margrete I of the Kalmar Union. Even the Viking king Harald Bluetooth is said to be buried here. Nowhere else in the world are so many intact royal tombs gathered in one place.

Three Viking Age kings are buried here: Harald Bluetooth (died 986), Sweyn Forkbeard (died 1014) and Sweyn Estridsen (died 1074). Since the 16th century, all Danish monarchs have been buried in Roskilde Cathedral.

The church was built around 1200 as an impressive Gothic cathedral in red brick.

UNESCO World Heritage

The cathedral’s architecture is a journey through 800 years of history and has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It therefore stands alongside world-famous monuments such as the pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China.

Roskilde Cathedral is listed by UNESCO as irreplaceable cultural heritage for two reasons. As one of the first major brick buildings in Northern Europe, the cathedral played a key role in spreading the use of brick across the region. At the same time, its many richly decorated chapels offer a unique insight into 800 years of architectural history, shaped by its role as a royal burial church.

Roskilde Cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Denmark.

Guided tour

Join a guided tour of Roskilde Cathedral with the cathedral’s own guides. You will be taken on a journey through 800 years of Danish history. The tour leads you through the royal chapels and introduces the many fascinating stories connected with this remarkable place.

The tour includes stories about St George and the dragon, the Helhest ghost horse and the King’s Column. You will also gain an overview of the Danish kings and queens, especially Margrete I and Christian IV.

Treasure hunt at Roskilde Cathedral

Roskilde Cathedral offers plenty of space and soaring ceilings for both adults and children. If you are visiting with children or grandchildren, you can enjoy a fun and educational treasure hunt around the cathedral.

Getting to Roskilde Cathedral

By car

Approximately 30 minutes from Copenhagen to the cathedral. Several car parks are available in central Roskilde close to the church.

By train

22-25 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station to Roskilde Station. Walk via Algade, approximately 600 metres or 8-10 minutes.

By bicycle

Bicycle parking is available by the cathedral.

By bus

From Roskilde Station, buses 201A and 209 stop close to the cathedral.

FAQ about Roskilde Cathedral

What is Roskilde Cathedral known for?

It is the burial church of Denmark’s kings and queens and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When was the cathedral built?

In the 12th and 13th centuries, and completed around 1280.

What status does the cathedral have?

It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.

How many royals are buried here?

More than 40 monarchs.

Can you visit the royal chapels?

Yes, most are open to visitors.

Is the cathedral still in use?

Yes, services, concerts and ceremonies are still held here.

Where is the cathedral located?

In the centre of Roskilde, close to the station.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, please see current ticket prices. Admission to church services is free.

Why is the cathedral on UNESCO’s list?

Because it is a unique example of Brick Gothic architecture and royal history.