Europe, 4 June 2012 - Roskilde

Today was the first day to explore the environs of Copenhagen. Since we had been there as a stop on the cruise, and had wandered the old city then, we decided (or Ron decided for us) to explore other towns in the area. Today's destination was Roskilde.

Like several other stops on this trip, I had not realized how much of Copenhagen and the other cities in this part of Europe are on islands, peninsulas, and otherwise connected to the water. Roskilde is west of Copenhagen on the south end of the inlet that forms the peninsula that Copenhagen is on.

Roskilde Cathedral

As is often the case, our first stop in town was the Cathedral. From the outside it is not spectacular, but inside it is wonderful, with its white paint and clean gothic lines. And as is often the case, many royalty are buried in the church.

Altar Piece

The altar has a beautiful altar piece with biblical scenes, covered in gold leaf. The organ, which we did not hear as usual, is in a side gallery above the pulpit. In addition, there is a small two manual free-standing organ near the chancel.

Main Organ

Chancel Organ

Cathedral clock

The other very interesting feature is the clock, which, of course, strikes the hour. And puts on a little show in which St George slays the dragon before the clock chimes. The dragon dies screaming, with three out of tune organ pipes making the sound. Quite interesting.

Karen with Viking Ship
under construction

Old Viking Ship

The afternoon found us at another museum of Viking ships. This time, there are the remains of five ships which had been sunk at the mouth of the harbor as a blockade. They are not restored, but displayed in a way that shows what size the full framework was. Again, a very interesting history lesson on the Vikings. (Ron sat and read while we explored.) The museum includes several other very good displays, a film, and reconstructed workshop, including ship building. Most were not working yet for the summer.

Viking Ship Replica

We returned to the Rentner household in Hellerup which is a residential suburb on the north side of Copenhagen, and spent a quiet relaxing evening.