Church in Nylars (Nylars Church)
Dedicated to St. Nicholas, Nylars Rundkirke was built around 1160 and is considered the best-preserved of Bornholm’s four round churches. Its massive stone walls are more than two meters thick, and the entire structure has retained its original medieval character.
The church served both religious and defensive purposes – from the upper floors, locals could keep watch over the area, and during times of danger, it provided safe refuge. Thanks to its remarkable state of preservation, Nylars Rundkirke stands today as an outstanding example of medieval defensive architecture.
Good to know
- Church location: south, near Aakirkeby
Nylars Rundkirke – the best-preserved round church on Bornholm
The interior of Nylars Rundkirke impresses with its 12th-century Romanesque frescoes, among the best preserved on the island. They depict scenes from the Creation and the Fall of Man, painted in a distinctive style with bold lines and warm, earthy tones. The central pillar adorned with frescoes and the raw stone vaults create a quiet, contemplative atmosphere characteristic of medieval Scandinavian churches.
Today, Nylars Rundkirke is not only a place of worship but also one of Bornholm’s most visited landmarks. With its harmonious blend of history, art, and serenity, this church is often called the jewel of Bornholm’s round churches – a place that captivates both pilgrims and travelers seeking the island’s authentic spirit.
Information
| Visiting | Free entry (visits outside of service hours). Parking and toilets available on site. |
Location
| Nylars Rundkirke | |
| Nylars, Kirkevej 10K, 3720 Aakirkeby, Denmark | |
