JELLING & THE JELLING STONE IN DENMARK

Jelling is an old and important historical town in Danish history. In the Viking Age, it served as the royal seat of the Kingdom of Denmark, including Gorm the Old, Þyra and Harald Bluetooth.

The Jelling stones are large carved runestones from the 10th century, found in the town of Jelling, Denmark. The older of the two Jelling stones was raised by King Gorm the Old, in memory of his wife, Thyra. The larger of the two stones was raised by King Gorm’s son, Harald Bluetooth, in memory of his parents, and celebrating his conquest of Denmark and Norway. It also celebrates his conversion of the Danes to Christianity.

In addition to the stones, there is a fine museum within the town, hosting many Viking Era items of significance. Outside and across from the museum is a stone ship and two burial mounds.

PHOTO GALLERY