Can you imagine a rock so large that it weighs 35 tons? That is the Rokkestenen. This impressive boulder sits in Paradisbakkerne on Bornholm. It is a relic from the last ice age. The Rokkestenen is more than just a big rock. It is a testament to the power of nature.
The name Rokkestenen means “rocking stone”. It once moved with a little effort. Today, it takes considerable force to budge it even slightly. But there is a trick. Hopping on the small plateau on its side can help to move the Rokkestenen.
This giant erratic boulder came to Bornholm during the last ice age. It traveled with other erratics. These rocks became objects of folklore. Bornholm is home to at least 175 named erratics. The Rokkestenen stands out as one of the most famous.
The Rokkestenen consists of local banded gneiss. The gneiss is dark gray and has light granite flames. This makes it the oldest of Bornholm’s rocking stones.
There are tales of people believing that Rokkestenen sat atop a giant diamond. People thought they could claim the diamond if they moved the stone. Others claimed giants threw the Rokkestenen from Sweden to Bornholm.
The Rokkestenen is free to visit anytime. It is accessible to the public. Once, the Rokkestenen in Almindingen became stuck. Branches and vines grew under it. In 2019, it took 17 people to free it.
Around 2,900 BC, a volcanic eruption occurred. It affected Neolithic people in Northern Europe. Archaeologists found sun stones on Bornholm. These stones had engraved sun motifs. People likely sacrificed them to ensure the sun’s return. These sun stones are now at the National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagen.
The Rokkestenen is within the Natura 2000 area. This area includes Almindingen, Ølene, and Paradisbakkerne. Exploring this area offers beautiful nature. You can see rock fissures, trees, and heather. Hiking trails let you experience forests and lakes.