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Østerlars Rundkirke

TIME : 2016/2/18 17:33:47

The largest and most impressive of Bornholm's round churches dates back to at least from 1150, and its seven weighty buttresses and upper-level shooting gallery give away its former role as a fortress. The roof was originally constructed with a flat top to serve as a battle platform, but the excessive weight this exerted on the church walls saw it eventually replaced with its present conical one. The interior is largely whitewashed, although a swath of medieval frescoes has been uncovered and restored.

You'll find a rune stone dating back to 1070 at the church entrance and a sundial above it.

A 4km cycle path to the church leads inland south from Gudhjem; the church can also be reached on either bus 1 or 9 from Gudhjem. From Rønne, catch bus 4.