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Church · Lund, Escânia
Lunds domkyrka
The Romanesque cathedral of Lund, consecrated in 1145, with two stone towers, a 15th-century astronomical clock that chimes at set times, and a columned crypt where the legend of the giant Finn is said to dwell.
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 Lunds domkyrka
The Lunds domkyrka is one of the great examples of Romanesque architecture in the Nordic countries. Construction began around 1103, when Lund became the seat of the archbishopric for all of Scandinavia, and it was consecrated in 1145. It is built of sandstone, with two square towers on the west façade, rebuilt in the 19th century, and a rounded apse on the east side, decorated with arcaded galleries.
Inside, the nave is restrained, of light stone. The most sought-after piece is the Horologium mirabile Lundense, an astronomical clock from about 1424, restored in the 20th century. It shows the hours, the phases of the Moon and the calendar, and at set times of the day it plays the melody In dulci jubilo while the Three Kings parade before the Virgin and two knights duel above. The chancel has 14th-century carved wooden benches and a golden mosaic in the apse.
The crypt beneath the chancel is practically intact since 1123: a forest of short stone columns, each with a different carving. On one of them appears the figure of a man clinging to the column, which legend identifies as the giant Finn, who is said to have built the church and, tricked by Saint Lawrence, was turned to stone when he tried to pull it down.
The cathedral stands between the park Lundagård and the main square, in the heart of the city.
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 45 minutes to 1 hour; plan around the clock's schedule.
Best time
At the times when the astronomical clock chimes, which are usually at noon and at 3:00 PM on weekdays and at specific times on Sundays. During Masses tourist visits are restricted. Confirm before going.
How to get there
It's in the center of Lund, a 5-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Arrive 15 minutes before the clock's scheduled time and sit in front of it. Then go down to the crypt and look for the giant Finn clinging to one of the columns.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lunds domkyrka
When does the astronomical clock chime?
At fixed times, usually at noon and at 3:00 pm on weekdays, and at different times on Sundays. Check before you go.
Who is the giant Finn?
A legendary figure: the giant who is said to have built the cathedral and, when he tried to bring it down, turned to stone. He appears carved embracing a column in the crypt.
Does the cathedral charge admission?
The cathedral usually allows free access outside of services; guided tours and concerts may have their own rules. Check before you go.