Round Churches

The round churches of Bornholm are among the island’s most distinctive landmarks and a unique example of medieval defensive architecture in Denmark. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, they served a dual purpose – both religious and military. Their massive cylindrical walls, narrow arrow slits, and watchtowers were used not only for prayer but also to protect the local population from pirates and invaders.

Four such buildings have been preserved on Bornholm: in Østerlars, Olsker, Nylars, and Nyker. Each has its own individual character, yet all are distinguished by their whitewashed walls, conical roofs, and simple, austere form that blends harmoniously into the island’s landscape. The interiors are often decorated with Romanesque frescoes and wooden galleries, adding to their unique charm. Today, these churches are not only places of worship but also important landmarks on Bornholm’s tourist map, attracting lovers of history, architecture, and Nordic heritage.