The Church of Our Saviour is a prominent Baroque church located in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen. Designed by architect Lambert van Haven, the church was commissioned by King Christian V and consecrated in 1696. It is most famous for its distinctive corkscrew spire, which features an external staircase that winds around the exterior, allowing visitors to ascend to the top for panoramic views of the city.
The interior is noted for its elaborate Dutch Baroque altar, carved by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, and a massive pipe organ supported by two statues of elephants, the symbol of the Order of the Elephant. The church also houses a carillon, the largest in Northern Europe, which plays melodies on the hour from 8:00 AM to midnight.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Brick, Sandstone, Oak, Gold leaf
- Civilization
- Danish
- Accessibility
- Ground floor accessible; spire requires climbing stairs
- Date(s)
- 1682-1696
- Condition
- Active church
- Original Function
- Parish church
- Key Figures
- Lambert van Haven, Lauritz de Thurah, Christian V
Design and Construction
1682-1696The church was built to serve the growing population of the newly established Christianshavn district. Lambert van Haven provided the initial design, which followed a Greek cross floor plan, a departure from traditional longitudinal church designs of the era.
The Iconic Spire
1747-1752While the church was consecrated in 1696, the famous spiral spire was not added until the mid-18th century. Designed by Lauritz de Thurah, the spire was inspired by Borromini's Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza in Rome and quickly became a landmark of the Copenhagen skyline.
Modern Restoration
20th-21st centuryThe church has undergone several major restoration projects to preserve its intricate woodwork and the structural integrity of the external staircase. It remains an active parish church while serving as one of the city's most visited cultural landmarks.
Cultural Significance
The Church of Our Saviour is a central element of Copenhagen's architectural identity. Its unique spire is frequently referenced in Danish literature and folklore, most notably in Jules Verne's 'A Journey to the Center of the Earth', where the protagonist climbs the spire to overcome his fear of heights.
Beyond its literary fame, the church serves as a vital community hub in Christianshavn. Its carillon is a distinct auditory feature of the neighborhood, and the church remains a primary site for religious services and high-profile organ concerts in the capital.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
There is minor academic debate regarding the extent of the influence of Borromini's Roman works on Lauritz de Thurah's design of the spire. While the stylistic similarities are clear, some architectural historians argue that de Thurah adapted the concept significantly to suit the local climate and the specific structural requirements of the Danish brickwork.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
The church is open to the public for visits and services. Access to the spire requires a paid ticket and is subject to weather conditions; the spire may close during high winds or heavy rain. Modest dress is requested when entering the sanctuary.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid the largest tourist crowds. The spire is particularly popular during the summer months, so booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Photography
Photography is permitted inside the church, provided it does not disturb ongoing services. Tripods are generally not allowed inside the sanctuary.
Nearby POIs
31 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]Vor Frelsers Kirke: Historie og Arkitektur — Hanne Christensen. Copenhagen University Press (2012)
- [2]Danish Baroque Architecture — Jens Peter Jensen. Nordic Architectural Review (2018)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Brick, Sandstone, Oak, Gold leaf
- Civilization
- Danish
- Accessibility
- Ground floor accessible; spire requires climbing stairs