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Cathedral · Odense, Dinamarca do Sul
Catedral de São Canuto (Sankt Knuds Kirke)
Odense's brick Gothic cathedral, completed in 1499, with the crypt containing the remains of King Canute IV (the Holy) and the carved and gilded altar by Claus Berg from the early 16th century.
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 Catedral de São Canuto (Sankt Knuds Kirke)
Sankt Knuds Kirke is named for King Canute IV, who was killed in 1086 in a church in Odense and later canonised as Denmark’s patron saint. The first stone church on the site was built at the end of the 11th century; the present red-brick building, in the North European Gothic style, began around 1300 and was consecrated in 1499. The single tower dates from 1586.
In the crypt are the remains of Canute and his brother Benedict, housed in reliquaries, and it is the most visited part of the church. The high altar’s carved and gilded retable by Claus Berg, made between 1515 and 1525, contains hundreds of figures in scenes of the Passion and is considered a national treasure; it came from a Franciscan church in the city in 1807.
The interior is bright, with white vaults and ledger stones in the floor. Beside the cathedral is H. C. Andersen’s childhood home, and opposite is the garden Eventyrhaven by the river Odense, with statues of the writer and paths among trees.
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.
Best time
On weekdays, outside service times. The cathedral may close for ceremonies; check ahead.
How to get there
In central Odense, a 10-minute walk from the station, next to Flakhaven square and the city hall. The Odense Rådhus tram stop is beside it.
Tip
Go down to the crypt, then exit through Eventyrhaven garden by the river. Andersen's childhood home is a 2-minute walk away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral de São Canuto (Sankt Knuds Kirke)
Who was Saint Canute?
King Canute IV, killed in 1086 in a church in Odense and later canonized. His remains are in the cathedral crypt.
What's special about the altar?
The gilded wooden altarpiece carved by Claus Berg between 1515 and 1525, featuring hundreds of figures of the Passion.
What is near the cathedral?
H. C. Andersen's childhood home, the Eventyrhaven garden, and the town hall on Flakhaven square.