Nestled in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen stands Christians Kirke. It is a remarkable example of Rococo architecture. Are you ready to uncover its secrets?
Christians Kirke was designed by Nicolai Eigtved. Its construction spanned from 1754 to 1759. Originally, it was known as Frederick’s German Church. It served the German community of Christianshavn until the late 19th century.
King Christian IV founded Christianshavn in 1611. Today, Christians Kirke is a regular parish church within the Danish National Church. It reflects its historical roots.
Architecturally, Christians Kirke is distinctive. Its rectangular layout positions the nave unusually. It lies between the shorter sides of the rectangle enhancing its width. The church is built from yellow Flensborg brick with sandstone finishes. Ionic pilasters adorn the portal. Tall round-arched windows grace the facade. A notable addition is the spire. D. G. Anthon, Eigtved’s son-in-law, designed it in 1769. It rises 70 meters at the northern facade.
Inside, Christians Kirke resembles a theatre. Benches are flanked by three tiers of galleries. These galleries have boxes on the northern, western, and southern sides. They give congregants an unobstructed view. The podium on the eastern side is staged like a theatre. This podium features a unique altarpiece. It integrates an altar table, a pulpit, and an organ at the top. It faces an ornate entrance topped by a royal box.
The church’s musical heritage is rich. Its impressive organ was originally built in 1759. Hartvig Jochum Müller built it. Over the years, newer instruments replaced it. The latest one is from P.-G. Andersen in 1976.
Below the nave lies a large crypt. It covers the entire area above. It is divided into 48 burial chapels. This crypt has been in use since the church’s consecration. Notable figures rest here. Danish historian Peter Frederik Suhm and rock and roll guitarist Link Wray were buried here. Wray was buried there in 2005.
Before 1901, the church was called Frederiks tyske kirke. This translates to Frederik’s German Church. The name changed to Christians Kirke to avoid confusion. Frederiks Kirke is located in Frederiksstaden. The new name also commemorates Christian IV. He founded the Christianshavn area.
The interior is unusual and theater-like. Three tiers of galleries with boxes rise high. They provide excellent views of the podium. The podium includes the altar table, pulpit, and organ.
The crypt beneath Christians Kirke has 48 burial chapels. It has been used since 1759. Peter Frederik Suhm is buried here. Also, musician Link Wray rests in this crypt.
Christians Kirke is sometimes called the “Theatre Church”. It can hold up to a thousand people. It hosts concerts and artistic events. Its design ensures it never looks empty.
So, as you stand before Christians Kirke remember its rich history. Consider its architectural uniqueness. Reflect on the notable figures buried in its crypt. Let the echoes of music and history resonate within you.