Taarbæk Kirke

Gazing upon Taarbæk Kirke, have you ever considered its unique location? Taarbæk Kirke stands near the bustling city of Copenhagen, yet it’s nestled beside the tranquil Jægersborg Dyrehave and the Baltic Coast. This placement reflects the church’s history, bridging the gap between the everyday lives of the villagers and the grandeur of nature and royalty. Taarbæk Kirke, formerly known as Skovkapellet (The Forest Chapel), wasn’t always a grand structure. The original community, a small fishing village, belonged to Lyngby Parish. Imagine the trek to Lyngby Church, a long journey often requiring a detour through Jægersborg Allé. In 1821, a kind resident, Mrs. Bilberg, opened her home for bible readings. Later, two Englishmen gifted their summer house, Neptunus, to become Taarbæk’s first combined school and prayer house, affectionately nicknamed “The Hope.” The community’s spiritual life began to blossom. As Taarbæk transitioned from a fishing village to a popular seaside resort, the need for a proper church grew. Wealthy newcomers and summer residents desired a place of worship closer to home. Enter Carl Frederik Tietgen, a prominent financier and summer resident of Taarbæk. Tietgen, a personal friend of Lyngby’s pastor, became the primary benefactor for the construction of Taarbæk Kirke. The church, designed by Carl Emil Wessel, was inaugurated in 1864, a momentous occasion graced by the presence of King Christian IX himself. Wessel’s design, inspired by a church in Limerick, Ireland, resulted in a beautiful brick structure, complete with a nave, chancel, tower, and buttresses. Inside, the stained-glass windows, created by artists like Johan Vilhelm Andersen and Kræsten Iversen, depict biblical scenes and prominent figures in Danish religious history, adding a touch of color and reverence to the space. Over the years, the church has seen changes, from the replacement of the original altarpiece to the installation of a new organ and bells. The adjacent cemetery, established in 1905, became the final resting place for notable figures like businessman Alfred Benzon, writer Otto Benzon, and even the renowned silent film actor Valdemar Psilander. Taarbæk Kirke has always been more than just a building. It has been a testament to community spirit, the generosity of individuals like Tietgen, and the enduring power of faith. As you leave Taarbæk Kirke, remember its journey from humble beginnings to a cherished landmark, a place where history, nature, and spirituality intertwine.