Thursday, May 28, 2009

A FJORD IN DENMARK?

Yes, there is a fjord in Denmark the Roskilde Fjord and it runs almost 25 miles through the island of Zealand and at the very base of the fjord is the city of Roskilde. Although the fjord is quite shallow and no more than 19 feet deep in most places there are approximately 30 small islands with pristine areas featuring largely untouched flowers and wildlife. It is even possible to experience the fjord on a Viking ship.

But what of the town of Roskilde?

Only a short distance from Copenhagen, Roskilde is one of Denmark’s oldest cities. During the Viking period it was an important trading post and developed into one of Northern Europe’s most important cities. The Roskilde Cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and was the first Gothic cathedral to be built of brick and is the burial site of Danish monarchs. The cathedral organ dates back to the 1500’s and can be heard at regular intervals throughout the year.

The Viking Ship Museum houses the restored remains of 5 Viking ships sunk in the harbor in the 11th century to protect the city from attack as at that time Roskilde was the Danish capital. Besides being a tourist attraction the museum staff researches Viking ship building and seaworthiness. Visitors to the museum learn the differences between longships, warships and smaller fishing and ferrying type boats.

In the city center is a walking street a market square, and the former gasworks that is today an art gallery and workshop where artisans create their works. These venues together with an active harbor area provide a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Certainly, Roskilde is a must visit as it is only a 30 minute train ride from downtown Copenhagen and several sightseeing tour combinations include a visit as well.

For further information:
www.roskilde-info.dk

Sincerely,

John and Don