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Church · Gudhjem, Região da Capital
Igreja Redonda de Østerlars (Østerlars Kirke)
The largest of Bornholm's four medieval round churches, dating from around 1160, with white walls, a conical roof, buttresses and three storeys, the top one formerly a defensive post. Frescoes from around 1350.
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 Redonda de Østerlars (Østerlars Kirke)
Bornholm has four medieval round churches, a rare building type: Østerlars, Nylars, Olsker and Nyker. Østerlars, dedicated to São Lourenço, is the largest and possibly the oldest, built around 1160, a date inferred from coins of 1157 found in the floor. The white stone-and-lime walls are strengthened by buttresses, and the conical roof, covered with boards, sits above the circular body.
The round churches served as both church and refuge against pirate attacks in the Baltic. Østerlars has three storeys: the nave around a hollow central pillar, a middle floor and, at the top, the upper floor, which probably functioned as an open defensive post, with openings for firing.
The central pillar is covered with frescoes from about 1350, depicting scenes from the life of Christ, from the Annunciation to the Passion, ending with the Last Judgment. The bell tower stands separate, beside it, and the surrounding churchyard contains old tombstones.
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
About 30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
On weekdays, outside service times, from May to September. In winter opening hours may be reduced; check ahead.
How to get there
It lies just north of the village of Østerlars, about 5 km south of Gudhjem. Buses from Gudhjem and from Rønne stop nearby; by car or bicycle, take the inland road.
Tip
Climb to the top floor via the narrow stairs to see the defensive structure. Combine with Gudhjem the same day by bicycle.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Igreja Redonda de Østerlars (Østerlars Kirke)
Why are the churches of Bornholm round?
They served as church and as refuge and fortress against pirate attacks in the Baltic. Bornholm has four of them.
Can you climb the church's upper levels?
Yes, via narrow stairs up to the top floor, the old defensive post.
Which are the other round churches?
Nylars, Olsker and Nyker, all on Bornholm.