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Odense Cathedral
Odense Cathedral (Sankt Knuds Kirke) is one of Denmark's most significant Gothic structures and the seat of the Diocese of Funen. The current brick edifice was begun in the 13th century and completed toward the end of the 15th century. It is named after King Canute the Holy, who was murdered in 1086 in the nearby Albani Church. His remains, along with those of his brother Benedict, are displayed in ornate shrines in the cathedral's crypt. A major artistic highlight is the monumental altarpiece by Claus Berg from 1521, featuring over 300 intricately carved figures. The architecture is characterized by its high, light-filled nave and elegant pointed arches. Serving as the final resting place for several Danish monarchs, including King Hans and Christian II, the cathedral holds immense national importance. It stands as a powerful symbol of Odense's long-standing role as a religious and political center in Denmark.
- Location: Denmark
- Top sights: Saint Canute's Cathedral · Adskilte · Eventyrhaven
- Nearby: Kerteminde (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 47 | 43 | 36 | 49 | 68 | 74 | 78 | 58 | 69 | 61 | 61 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Construction period: c. 1280–1499.
- Resting place of King Canute the Holy.
- Altarpiece by Claus Berg with 300 figures.
- Principal church on the island of Funen.
- Premier example of Danish Brick Gothic.
- Burial site of Kings Hans and Christian II.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Odense Cathedral (10)
H. C. Andersens Barndomshjem🏛 museum
Hans Christian Andersen's childhood home in Denmark.
Baptistkirken i Odense
Baptistkirken i Odense is a church building in Odense Municipality, Denmark.
St. Alban's Church
St. Alban's Church is a church in Odense, Denmark.
Kunst- og Filosoficentret Solvognen
An art and philosophy centre in Odense.
Odense Adelige Jomfrukloster⛪ monastery
Ancient monument in Odense Municipality (147541).
Vaskeplads for H. C. Andersens mor
Washing place for H. C. Andersen's mother in Odense.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
To whom is the cathedral dedicated?
Can the skeleton of the saint be seen?
What architectural style is the cathedral?
Are there significant artworks inside?
What are the opening hours?
Odense Cathedral: where is it located?
Odense Cathedral: what is there to see?
Odense Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
Odense Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
