Selsø Church, round church overlooking Lake Selsø
Overlooking the protected bird reserve at Lake Selsø and close to the manor house Selsø Manor, Selsø Church rests peacefully in the landscape. Here, you encounter a church with roots in the Middle Ages, fascinating architectural traces and a rare circular apse that makes the visit truly special.
Selsø Church today appears as a Romanesque church with later additions, yet it preserves remains of an original round church. For centuries, the church has been a gathering point for the local community – and it still bears clear traces of its long history.
From round church to village church
The oldest parts of the church date back to the Romanesque period. The chancel and the circular apse are among the earliest sections of the building, and in the eastern gable of the nave you can see remains of the original round nave. The layout was altered over time, and the present church took shape around the 12th century.
Outside, you can explore the masonry, where different stones and details reveal alterations made over the centuries. The porch on the south side and the tower to the west were added during the Middle Ages. The upper part of the tower was built later, and together they create a church that clearly reflects the work of many generations.
The church’s two bells are believed to date from the Middle Ages and have called the parish’s residents together for several hundred years.
Distinctive architecture and an atmospheric interior
The circular apse, built of limestone tufa, is one of the most remarkable features of Selsø Church. Inside, you will experience a simple and light-filled church interior with whitewashed walls and vaulted ceilings. The vault in the apse is original, while the nave and chancel were vaulted at a later date.
Several of the original Romanesque windows have been preserved, and the small openings allow a soft light to enter, enhancing the historic atmosphere.
Wall paintings with unusual motifs
On the walls of the nave, you will find wall paintings from the Middle Ages and later periods. The motifs are both dramatic and richly detailed – including a rare depiction of the punishment for one of the seven deadly sins. Between the chancel and the nave, a crucifixion scene can be seen, which, together with the other decorations, offers an insight into the faith and imagery of earlier times.
Furnishings through the centuries
The church contains furnishings from several periods. A chancel arch crucifix from the 13th century hangs in the nave, and between the chancel and the nave stands a beautifully decorated rood screen from around 1600 with figures of Christ and the Evangelists.
The altarpiece from the early 17th century is richly ornamented, and the pulpit from the 17th century features both Evangelists, figures of the Apostles and a royal monogram. The sandstone font is octagonal and decorated with angel heads.
Beneath the chancel and the apse is an older crypt, and in the church you can also see memorials commemorating people connected to this place.
Tip
When you visit Selsø Church, you are in the heart of an area known for its outstanding natural scenery. Take a walk around Selsø Lake and experience the birdlife in the protected nature reserve, or combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Selsø Manor, where the history of the Danish manor house unfolds in beautiful surroundings. You can also cycle the “Pontoppidan Route” and discover more of the area.