How about a church that doesn’t look like a church? That’s Hyltebjerg Kirke. It stands as a testament to innovative design and community spirit. Let me tell you its story.
Hyltebjerg Kirke is located on Ålekistevej in Vanløse. It serves as the parish church for Hyltebjerg Sogn. Its construction spanned from 1945 to 1960. The church was finally consecrated on May 13, 1960.
The tale of Hyltebjerg Kirke begins with a growing population. The southwestern part of Vanløse Sogn saw significant growth. Vanløse Sogn became too large. The existing Vanløse Kirke built in 1909 was simply too small.
Local initiatives drove the creation of Hyltebjerg Kirke. Two committees from 1935 to 1945 spearheaded the effort. The community actively contributed to funding the church. They conducted collections among the 8500 households in the parish.
The foundation stone was laid in November 1944. King Christian X’s words were inscribed on the foundation document. These words spoke of building a church amid global destruction. Construction occurred during the harsh winter of 1944-45. Post-war shortages delayed the project. The northern polygon called Kirkesalen opened on June 24, 1945. The final consecration happened much later in 1960. The church was named Hyltebjerg after the area’s long slope.
Interestingly the southern polygon became a kindergarten. Copenhagen Municipality contributed to the church’s finances. The Civil Defence co-financed the spacious crypt. It served as a public shelter.
Sadly a fire caused extensive damage in March 2022. The church is being rebuilt. A temporary church hall opened in September 2024. It is located behind Hyltebjerg Kirke on Guldagervej 5. Most church activities take place there until the reconstruction finishes. Some events are still held at Hyltebjerggård.
The architectural firm of Christian Holst and his sons designed Hyltebjerg Kirke. It became known for its unconventional design. It does not look like a traditional church. Its modernist style features geometric shapes. The hexagonal shape appears throughout the church. It is seen in the French marble baptismal font. It also appears in the bog oak collection block.
The altar rails and pulpit are also made of bog oak. The altar table is made of French marble. The church combines monumentality with Danish familiarity. A fresco by Elvin Erud on the altar wall depicts the Ascension.
The sloping roof serves as the church tower. Red and yellow bricks were used. The exterior facades are red. The interior features yellow bricks for a brighter feel.
Stig Andersen from Fogh & Følner Arkitekter is leading the rebuilding.
Beyond services Hyltebjerg Kirke hosts various activities. These include lectures reading groups and concerts. There is also a café serving coffee and cake.
Hyltebjerg Kirke stands as a symbol. It represents community resilience and architectural innovation. Even in its current state of rebuilding it continues to inspire. Its story reflects the dedication of a community. It reflects their commitment to creating a unique space for worship and gathering.