Østermarie

Have you ever wondered how a village earns its name? Østermarie, nestled in the northeastern corner of Bornholm, has a tale to tell. It’s a story woven with ancient stones, a bustling railway, and the echoes of renowned artists. Østermarie wasn’t always Østermarie. Originally, the area was known as Markersen, a nod to St. Mary’s Church, built in the 12th century. Later, to avoid confusion with another village on the island, it became Østermarie, meaning “Eastern Mary”. The old church, now a ruin, stands as a silent witness to the passage of time. Its Romanesque architecture, with its unusual stone roof and wooden centerpiece in the chancel arch, hints at a rich history. The new Østermarie Church, built in 1891 beside its older counterpart, is a vibrant hub of the community. It hosts concerts by renowned artists, carrying on a tradition of celebrating creativity. In the churchyard, four runestones whisper tales of the Viking era. These ancient stones, with their inscriptions in the transitional style between Viking and medieval runes, offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Østermarie’s earliest inhabitants. One tells of Barni, Sibbi, and Tofi, who raised the stone in memory of their father, Ketill. Another commemorates Sibbi, whose brothers, Barni, Tofi, and Asgotr, ensured his memory lived on in stone. The arrival of the Gudhjembanen railway in 1916 marked a turning point for Østermarie. The station, designed by Kay Fisker and Aage Rafn, became a bustling center of commerce, particularly for the local cooperative, which had its own siding. The railway’s presence cemented Østermarie’s place as a vital hub on the island. While the railway is now gone, the station building remains, a testament to a bygone era. The spirit of progress continues in Østermarie. The old nursing home has been transformed into “Vores Folkekøkken” (Our People’s Kitchen), a community-driven space focused on food and education. The tradition of honoring artists continues with KulturBornholm, a local association that names streets after its chosen “Artist of Honour”. These unofficial designations add a touch of whimsy to the village’s landscape, celebrating the enduring power of art and culture in Østermarie. So, as you stand in Østermarie, remember that you’re not just in a village. You’re in a living story, etched in stone, whispered on the wind, and celebrated in music and art.