Towering over us stand the Roskildekrukkerne. Three colossal stoneware jars. Each nearly five meters high. A truly remarkable sight.
These aren’t just any jars. They’re a gift. A monumental present to the city of Roskilde. Presented in 1998. A celebration of the city’s 1000th anniversary. The generous giver? Stryhn’s Leverpostej A/S. A local company. They wanted to leave a lasting mark. And they certainly did.
Each of these giants weighs approximately eight tons. That’s a lot of stoneware. The creation of artist Peter Brandes. They stand proudly on Hestetorvet. Across from Roskilde Station. A fitting location. Marking the gateway to the city for many arriving by train.
Look closely. Notice the details. The first jar you see from the station displays a poem. Written by Henrik Nordbrandt. This poem celebrates Roskilde. It also honors Queen Margrethe I. A significant historical figure. The other two jars though similar in form boast unique ornamentation.
But there’s more. Inscribed within the jars are names. The names of every Stryhn’s employee. Those who helped create this extraordinary artwork are also included. This adds a personal touch. A human element to this grand scale sculpture.
The jars aren’t just sitting there. They stand. They seem to float. They rest in a basin. Made of basalt and granite. Water gently laps around their bases. At night the scene transforms. Fiber optic lights in the basin illuminate the jars. Creating a magical atmosphere.
The Roskildekrukkerne symbolize life and death. The artist intended them this way. Jars are used to store food. They’re also used as urns. The jars are a beautiful powerful statement. A tribute to Roskilde’s past present and future. A testament to artistic vision and corporate generosity. A unique piece of public art. One that you will always remember.