Denmark’s viking past
- The International
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Sudaay Tat Haznedar explores the origins and legacy of Denmark’s Viking ring fortresses,
revealing how these ancient structures continue to shape the nation’s historical identity.
Photographs: Various
Text: Sudaay Tat Haznedar
If it is your first time, you are in the right place. This article covers the five forts to visit and their history. Before we start, let’s dive into a bit of background on Viking Ring Fortresses in Denmark.
As their name suggests, these fortresses are circular and share similarities. Mostly, they were built between 970-980 CE, and their placement was usually strategic, such as near important land or sea routes or places used for defence. As far as is known, the purpose was to consolidate power for the Danish king, defend the realm, control trade routes, and demonstrate the new state's formation.
Today, you can see five key ring-fortresses in Denmark, and they are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list (2023) as “Viking-Age Ring Fortresses”.
THE TOP 5 VIKING FORTS TO VISIT
1. Trelleborg (Slagelse, Zealand)
Trelleborg is one of Denmark’s most well-preserved ring fortresses, and it likely served as a royal stronghold. It was excavated between 1934 and 1942, revealing 31 houses and many artefacts. Its strategic position is also critical, as it is between rivers and located in Zealand in the Tude Valley.
In summer, there are usually events such as the Viking Festival, and within the fort, you’ll also find a reconstructed Viking village. If you are planning to start your trip, it is easy to reach by car, or you may need to take public transport from Slagelse. You will see the best-preserved forts and have an immersive experience.
Trelleborg is also the site of legend and myth. They say during the misty summer mornings, you might see the shadowy outlines of Viking warriors training on the ramparts of the fort. People say there are some ghosts from Harald Blåtand’s army, but who knows? Why don't you give it a try? You can see if it is a legend or real.
2. Fyrkat (Hobro, Jutland)
Fyrkat had sixteen large longhouses arranged in four quadrants. It was excavated between 1950 and 1958 by C.G. Schultz. You can see some unique things there; for example, there is a grave called “seeress’s,” which is an unusual female burial with grave goods. She was buried with some interesting items, including herbs and jewellery. This shows she might have held a decisive spiritual role. Some historians even say she might have been a ritual priestess, connecting the human world with the Norse gods.
It is also less crowded than some other Sjælland sites and perfect for a quieter visit. You can also gain insights into everyday Viking-Age life beyond the fort structure, and it is an ideal place to combine history with a nature walk.
“The Viking forts are an essential part of Danish history. It is the time when the country transformed into a unified kingdom.”
3. Aggersborg (Limfjord, Northern Jutland)
Aggersborg is one of the largest Danish ring fortresses. Harald Blåtand built it in the late 970s. The structure is a circular rampart about 9 metre wide and 4 meter high, with four gates oriented in the cardinal directions. The location is strategically important for controlling traffic and is in the narrowest part of the Limfjord.
It tends to be less crowded than other forts, and you can see some rudimentary remains. It is near the water and open landscape, making it a good place for fresh air and walks in nature. Because of its location, it also experiences coastal winds, so do not forget to bring appropriate clothing. It is less reconstructed and more raw, so that you can have a different experience than other forts.
4. Nonnebakken (Odense, Funen)
Nonnebakken differs from others because much of the fortress is hidden beneath the city, so ongoing efforts are underway to highlight it. It is located beneath modern-day Odense and, like the others, is part of Harald Blåtand's ring-fortress system.
It also has a unique urban style: you are in the city, walking, and already on the Viking-Age site. It is great for combining with other things in Odense. You can think of this as urban meets archaeology, creating a wonderful experience.
5. Borgring (Køge, Zealand)
The fifth and final site you can visit is Borgring, located about 4km from Køge and added to the UNESCO list in 2023. If you visit there, you can follow the excavations and recent research. It is also a good one-day trip because of its proximity to Copenhagen, and you can check current exhibitions and openings before you go. It will be perfect if you combine it with a stay in Køge or near Copenhagen
You have just met Denmark’s Viking Forts, and now it is time to plan your visit! Here are some tips for visiting:
Best time to visit: I have learned that late spring to early autumn (May to September) is a good time to visit. You can enjoy good weather and on-site activities.
Getting around: If you are living in Copenhagen, you can start with the closer ones, such as Trelleborg and Borgring; it will be a day trip. For the further ones, there are regional trains and local buses.
Tickets & tours: Most sites offer free walking tours, but museums often charge admission, so check their websites.
What to bring: You are living in Denmark, and we never know what the weather will be like. Always have a raincoat and good walking shoes; we don’t want your camera to get wet! Check the weather before you go.
According to research by Nordjyske Museer, all of these fortresses symbolised not only power but also the rise of an organised state.
First, their geometric shape demonstrates the Vikings’ advanced engineering and strategic thinking. Studies in Science magazine indicate that the forts were not random constructions; they were carefully planned.
These sites connect modern Denmark to its Viking history and remain part of the national heritage, making them a strong draw for visitors from around the world. When you visit these sites, you are seeing history and imagining what the world was like a thousand years ago.
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