Grundtvig's Church

TLDR: Experience Copenhagen's Grundtvig's Church, a striking Brick Expressionist landmark built from six million bricks. This is a perfect spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path architectural gem – or those who are Shrek fans (more on that later).

Copenhagen, with its charming canals and vibrant neighborhoods, holds many treasures, but few are as visually distinct as Grundtvig's Church. As a local Copenhagener, I only recently visited this church and here's my take on it. 

Simply put, it stands out – quite literally – with its imposing presence and unique material. If you're planning a trip to Denmark's capital and looking for something truly different to add to your itinerary, join me as we explore this remarkable structure. 

We'll cover everything from its fascinating origins to what it feels like to step inside, helping you decide if this church belongs on your must-see list – and whether this actually is the church from Shrek.

What is the story behind Grundtvig's Church?

Imagine a building that seems to grow organically from the earth, shaped by a powerful idea rather than traditional blueprints. That's the feeling you get when you first see Grundtvig's Church. 

Its story begins with N.F.S. Grundtvig, a towering figure in 19th-century Denmark—a pastor, poet, and philosopher whose thoughts deeply influenced Danish identity and schooling. This church was conceived as a lasting tribute to him.

The journey to build it started with a design contest in 1913, won by architect Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint. His vision was ambitious: a monument blending the grandeur of Gothic cathedrals with the simple, familiar forms of Danish village churches, all constructed from brick. 

Danes from all walks of life, even those abroad, contributed funds, making it a true community effort. Construction began in 1921, and though Jensen-Klint passed away before its completion in 1940, his son, Kaare Klint, ensured his father's dream was fully realized. The building is famously made of about six million bricks, each laid by hand, giving it a distinctive textured skin. 

Its massive facade, with its vertical lines and towering form, strikingly resembles a church organ, reaching high into the sky. Even the homes around it, also designed by Jensen-Klint, echo the church's unique style, creating a harmonious architectural landscape. But is this the church from Shrek? 

Which Church inspired Shrek?

Walking around the exterior of Grundtvig's Church, you might find yourself thinking it looks familiar, even if you’ve never been to Copenhagen before. That's because many people, especially online, believe this very building served as the inspiration for the church in the Shrek movies, particularly the one from Fiona and Lord Farquaad's wedding. While DreamWorks hasn't officially confirmed it, the resemblance is hard to ignore once you see it.

The church's highly unusual, towering form and the distinctive brickwork that defines its shape are what probably sparked this connection. Instead of the usual grey stone or ornate details, you see clean lines and the consistent texture of those countless bricks. This unique appearance has definitely given it a fun, modern nickname, making it a quirky pilgrimage spot for fans of the ogre and his adventures. 

You might even find yourself looking for a gingerbread man around the corners!

Can you go inside Grundtvig's church?

Absolutely, you can step right inside Grundtvig's Church, and I highly recommend you do. The feeling changes entirely once you pass through its grand doors. While the exterior makes a dramatic statement, the interior offers a profound sense of calm and vastness. It's generally open to the public, though it's always smart to check their website for current hours before you go. 

Once inside, the sheer scale of the space washes over you. The tall, vaulted ceilings seem to float, crafted entirely from the same pale bricks you see outside. Sunlight streams through the high windows, creating gentle patterns on the brickwork and illuminating the vast, uncluttered space. 

It feels incredibly serene and quiet. Your voice echoes softly because of its exceptional acoustics, which also make it a popular spot for concerts. Dominating one end is one of Denmark's largest organs, with its pipes reaching up majestically – the longest one, I learned, is a colossal 11 meters! 

Admission is free so why not go in?

What denomination is Grundtvig's church?

Grundtvig's Church is a Lutheran church, aligning with the Church of Denmark, which holds a significant place in Danish culture. For travelers, understanding this helps explain the particular aesthetic you experience inside. Unlike many ornate Catholic churches found across Europe, with their vibrant frescoes, gilded altars, and intricate stained glass, Grundtvig's Lutheran identity is reflected in its striking simplicity.

The interior's monochromatic palette, dominated by the soft of the brick, isn't just an architectural choice; it speaks to a different spiritual emphasis. The soaring vaulted ceilings draw your eye upwards, but there are no distractions from elaborate decoration. Instead, the focus is on light, space, and contemplation. 

You feel a directness and purity in the design, where the structure itself becomes the art. It's a stark yet powerful contrast that truly makes it stand apart, inviting a different kind of spiritual or reflective experience from what you might be used to.

Is it worth visiting Grundtvig's Church?

For an architecture enthusiast or someone seeking a truly unique, peaceful experience away from the city's main tourist trails, Grundtvig's Church is absolutely worth your time. Its distinct Brick Expressionist design, blending traditional Danish elements with Gothic aspirations, is unlike anything else you'll encounter. The towering west facade, with its "organ pipes" of brick, and the expansive, light-filled interior, create an atmosphere that feels both grand and incredibly calm. If you appreciate clean lines, the interplay of light and shadow, and the quiet power of understated design, you'll find it deeply rewarding.

However, it's honest to say it might not appeal to everyone. Its location in the Bispebjerg district means it’s a bit of a journey—about a 30 minute bus or bike ride from the city center. If your idea of a church visit involves colorful stained glass, elaborate altars, and lots of gold, you might find its austere, monochromatic brick interior less captivating.

The best time to visit is definitely during daylight hours, especially on a sunny day, to fully appreciate how the natural light plays across the distinctive bricks inside. You typically need about 30-60 minutes to explore thoroughly, and yes, it is wheelchair accessible. Entry is free. If you're keen to maximize your time in København and discover places like this, an app like StoryHunt can guide you to these unique sights with engaging audio stories, helping you prioritize your itinerary.

What else can I do in København?

Once you've absorbed the quiet grandeur of Grundtvig's Church, your exploration of København doesn't have to end there. In fact, there's plenty more to see, starting right in the immediate vicinity and expanding across the city.

Here are a few suggestions to round out your visit:

• Assistens Cemetery: Head to the Nørrebro district to another park-like cemetery. This is the final resting place for famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard. It offers a tranquil escape and a peek into Danish cultural history and is not that far away from Grundtvig's Church. 
• Danish Architecture Center (DAC): For a deeper dive into Danish design and architecture, make your way to the DAC. Located by the harbor, it offers exhibits that connect historical buildings with modern architectural innovations, providing context for places like Grundtvig's Church.
• Church of Our Saviour: For a completely different church experience, climb the iconic external spiral spire of this church in Christianshavn. The ascent offers an exhilarating adventure and rewards you with some of the most breathtaking panoramic views across the city.