Haraldsted - Avnstrup

The assassination at the forest edge

It is the whisper of history that flows through the treetops in Haraldsted. The small village may breathe peace and idyllic charm today, but it has not always been so.

Jealousy over the throne led to Knud Lavard's cousin Magnus fearing that he would lose the throne to the popular Knud Lavard. Therefore, on a January day in 1131, he lured Knud Lavard into an ambush at a spot in the forest edge east of Haraldsted. Knud Lavard was murdered.

Initially, Knud Lavard was buried in Haraldsted Church. Knud's son Valdemar, who later became King Valdemar the Great, secured the canonization of his father in 1170.

Haraldsted Chapel was built in memory of Knud Lavard. Although today only ruins remain, there are still people who pilgrimage to the site – along the pilgrimage route from St. Bendt's Church to Knud Lavard's Chapel.

Haraldsted Church

The parish church is relatively large and richly decorated. The cult of saints that arose around Knud Lavard has brought wealth to the church. But also Christian IV has bestowed gifts upon the church. The altarpiece is a gift from the king. Note also the unusually richly carved monstrance house, which was used during Catholic times to store the consecrated altar bread.

Knud Lavard's Chapel

The chapel was built around the year 1146. Presumably built by Benedictine monks, who also staffed it. But it was Knud Lavard's son, Valdemar, who was behind the construction of the chapel and later the canonization of Knud Lavard.

With the Reformation in 1536, the Catholic veneration of saints disappeared, and the chapel lost its significance. It was allowed to decay.

During the National Museum's excavations in 1884, the chapel was once again brought to light.

A detour to the forests

Both Vrangeskov and Allindelille Fredsskov in the local area offer unique natural experiences. In Vrangeskov, you can see some very crooked beech trees. Most of them are located near the inn (now AMU center). The growth form is due to a genetic defect in the trees.

In Allindelille Fredsskov, a very special flora can be found, which has developed on the highly calcium-rich soil. The forest is a natural site of national significance and is therefore protected. Here, rare orchids grow, which are not found in other locations in Denmark.

The calcium-rich soil also provides good conditions for the blue anemone, which in spring covers large areas of the forest floor; a sight that must be experienced.

The landscape around Skjoldenæsholm

Remnants of the old castle structure Skjoldenæs are outlined as high earthworks.../read more at friluftsguiden.dk.