What if these walls could talk? Måløv Kirke has stood here for centuries silently witnessing the ebb and flow of life in Måløv. This medieval church is a testament to time. It reflects the changing fortunes of this Copenhagen suburb.
Måløv Kirke is more than just old stones. It is a landmark that defines the town. Its origins stretch back to around 1100. However the church was not fully completed until sometime between 1200 and 1250.
The story of Måløv Kirke begins with the Hvide family. Sune Ebbesen built the church around 1150. Ebbe Skjalmsen was his father. He likely had his main residence in Knardrup. The church was dedicated to Sankt Ib.
Måløv itself has ancient roots. Gravhøje or ancient burial mounds dot the area. Archaeological finds show that people have lived here since ancient times.
The name Måløv offers a glimpse into its past. It first appeared in records on March 25 1193 as Malefa. By November 11 1334 it was known as Maløghæ. The name comes from “målhøj”. This means a place for presenting cases at the ting or assembly.
Måløv Kirke has seen many changes. Around 1500 the church underwent major renovations. The original west gable of the nave was rebuilt. Vaulted ceilings were added. These ceilings partially collapsed in 1937. A wooden beamed ceiling replaced them.
Look closely at the church’s structure. The oldest parts feature Romanesque style. The choir and nave are built of cleaved fieldstones. You will notice cornerstones of lime and freestone. The late Gothic porch and tower add to the unique appearance.
Inside Måløv Kirke original details remain. The relatively low choir has two original windows. An original altar niche is visible. In the nave two of the original four windows face west. The original north door still exists. The south door in expanded form now provides access from the porch.
The porch was built around 1500 of monk bricks. The gable has five stepped battlements. Each is decorated with a corresponding number of blindings. These are decorative brick niches. The side walls feature a white-painted saw shift. Here the bricks are laid diagonally with their corners facing outward.
The tower dates from the same time as the porch. It is also built of monk bricks. The vaulted tower room connects to the nave through a pointed arch. South and west pointed blindings have brick benches. The tower is built of three floors. It is topped by a saddle roof with gables in the east and west. Each gable is decorated with seven battlements and blindings.
Inside the church notice the exposed murals on the walls. They give it a unique feel.
Måløv Kirke stands as a reminder. It connects us to the past. It shows us the story of Måløv itself. From its ancient origins to its growth as a modern suburb. The church has remained a constant symbol of the town’s identity.