Hammer Church
Near the source of the Gudenå River lies a small church that is quite special in several ways. The church has a history that dates back to the late 1100s.
The village church that isn’t in a village
Hammer Church was built in the late 1100s by a local nobleman. The identity of the builder is unknown, as the church is first mentioned in historical records in 1457. During the Middle Ages, the church was owned by the Catholic Church. The ownership history is typical for Danish churches, as the king took over the church during the Reformation in 1536. The king then transferred the church to the lord of the local manor, Hammergård. The church remained with the manor until 1809 but was privately owned until 1908, when it became independently owned.
An interesting fact about Hammer Church is that it is not located in a village and never has been, unlike almost all other Danish churches. This suggests that a rather influential person was behind its construction.
About the church
Hammer Church is quite small. It consists of an original nave and choir from the 1100s, along with an added porch from the 1800s. The church lacks a tower; instead, a bell hangs on the gable, supported by three struts. The absence of a tower makes the church appear even smaller than it actually is.
The church sits on open terrain that gently slopes from the north and west down toward the very upper stretch of the Gudenå River, near its source.
Most Danish churches are built to face east, as the congregation looks toward the east where, according to the Bible, Jesus will come to humanity upon resurrection. However, this is not the case for Hammer Church, which faces south/southeast.
The church interior has a relatively modern appearance, as the furnishings have changed several times over the years. The baptismal font is original and dates back to the 1100s. The remaining furnishings, including the pulpit and altarpiece, are from the 1700s and 1800s. Three figures from a 1400s altarpiece still stand in the church.
Visiting Hammer Church
The church is open when the caretakers are present, typically on weekdays during regular working hours. It is often accessible during this time, but there may be occasions when the church is closed if caretakers are at other parish churches.
Nearby attractions
Hammer Church is located in the Gudenå Valley, close to the sources of the Gudenå and Skjern Å rivers. The Great Watershed is part of Denmark’s nature canon. Just a few hundred meters from the church is Myllerup Østergård, an alpaca farm where you can take a walk with an alpaca. You should also consider visiting the farm shop at Tinnetgaard if you want to see the springs.
Hammer Church is quite close to Tørring, where you can find dining options and shopping opportunities. This page offers inspiration for experiences around Tørring.
More historical attractions
The Kystlandet region boasts many exciting historical attractions, ranging from ancient history to industrial heritage, and from museums to architectural sites and natural attractions. This page can provide inspiration for historically interesting experiences near Horsens, Odder, and Juelsminde.