Consider this: You are standing at Denmark’s easternmost point. That is \u00d8stersk\u00e6r. These small uninhabited rocks are more than just a geographical marker. They are a symbol of Denmark’s reach.
\u00d8stersk\u00e6r is part of the Ertholmene archipelago. This lies northeast of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea. The name Ertholmene means something like pea islands.
\u00d8stersk\u00e6r is located about 300 meters east of Christians\u00f8. It may seem like a remote place, but it plays an important role. In 1999 the UN determined Denmark’s territorial borders. \u00d8stersk\u00e6r was defined by three points.
The Ertholmene are managed by the Danish Ministry of Defence. This makes them unique. They are outside the usual municipal divisions.
The islands are a protected area. You can visit the inhabited islands. Landing on \u00d8stersk\u00e6r is prohibited. This protects the wildlife.
In 1977 Ertholmene became a Ramsar area. This is because they are the only breeding area in Denmark for guillemots and razorbills. These birds nest on the rocks.
Imagine the isolation of this place. \u00d8stersk\u00e6r is exposed to the elements. It is a place where nature reigns supreme. The sea surrounds these rocks. The wind shapes them.
\u00d8stersk\u00e6r is a reminder of Denmark’s maritime history. It shows the importance of these small islands. They define territory. They protect wildlife.
Next time you look at a map of Denmark, remember \u00d8stersk\u00e6r. Think about its location far out in the Baltic Sea. Remember that it is the easternmost point. It is a piece of Denmark’s edge.