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Church · Skagen, Jutlândia do Norte
Igreja Soterrada (Den Tilsandede Kirke)
The white tower of a 14th-century church rising among the dunes west of Skagen. Moving sand covered the rest of the church, which was closed in 1795. The tower can be climbed in summer.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Igreja Soterrada (Den Tilsandede Kirke)
The church of São Lourenço was probably built in the second half of the 14th century and at the time was the largest church in the Vendsyssel region, serving the old town of Skagen. From the 16th century, the dune sand began to move into the area, and worshippers had to dig out the entrance to get to Mass. In 1795 the church was closed by royal order, and the nave was demolished.
Only the tower remained, white, with stepped stairs, today surrounded by sand and by the pine plantation that was created to hold back the dunes. The sight of the lone tower in the middle of the dunes is one of Skagen's best-known images. In summer the tower can be visited inside, with a small exhibition about the church's history.
The area is part of the Skagen plantation (Skagen Klitplantage), with walking trails and cycle paths through the dunes that link the church to the town and the west coast.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour, including the walk through the plantation.
Best time
Any time of year to see the tower from outside. The tower is usually open inside in summer, with tickets at a kiosk; check ahead. In summer there are often outdoor services next to the tower.
How to get there
It's about 4 km southwest of Skagen town centre. By bike, via the plantation cycle paths, about 15 minutes; by car there's parking a few minutes' walk from the tower.
Tip
Go by bike: the cycle path through the pine plantation and the dunes is part of the experience. Combine with Råbjerg Mile on the same day by car.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Igreja Soterrada (Den Tilsandede Kirke)
Why was the church buried?
Dune sand moved into the area from the 16th century. In 1795 the church was closed and only the tower remained standing.
Can you go inside the tower?
In summer it is usually possible to climb the tower from the inside. Check the dates.
How to get there?
By bicycle along the Skagen plantation, about 4 km from the centre, or by car, with parking nearby.