Frederik Lutheran Church
U.S. Virgin Islands
Frederik's Church, popularly called The Marble Church, is an Evangelical Lutheran church located in the Frederiksstaden district of Copenhagen, Denmark. Designed originally by Nicolai Eigtved in 1740, the church was intended to commemorate the 300-year jubilee of the House of Oldenburg's first coronation. It features the largest church dome in Scandinavia, spanning 31 meters, inspired by Roman Baroque architecture and Peter's Basilica in Rome. Construction began in 1749 but was delayed by budget cuts and Eigtved's death in 1754. Nicolas-Henri Jardin revised the design to a more classical style, and despite efforts, the church remained incomplete and in ruins for nearly 150 years. In 1874, Carl Frederik Tietgen took over the project, commissioning Ferdinand Meldahl to design the final church, which opened in 1894. Due to financial constraints, limestone replaced the planned marble construction. The church is notable for its gold-lettered inscription on the portico, statues of theologians including Kierkegaard, and its role as a monument to Danish philosopher N. F. S. Grundtvig. Today, Frederik's Church stands as a monumental architectural landmark symbolizing Danish heritage and Baroque grandeur.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the church during daylight to fully appreciate the intricate rococo architecture and the colorful fresco on the dome ceiling. Purchasing tickets or planning visits ahead is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid crowds. The church occasionally hosts concerts, offering a unique cultural experience. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check the official website or local tourist information for updated visiting hours and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •Frederik's Church has the largest church dome in Scandinavia with a diameter of 31 meters (102 feet).
- •The church dome's design and fresco are inspired by the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
- •Statues of prominent theologians, including Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, surround the church grounds.
- •The church was left as a ruin for nearly 150 years before being completed in the late 19th century.
- •The inscription on the front portico reads 'HERRENS ORD BLIVER EVINDELIG' meaning 'the word of the Lord endureth for ever' (1 Peter 1:25).
History
The foundation stone of Frederik's Church was laid by King Frederick V in 1749, marking the start of a grand project designed by Nicolai Eigtved.
After Eigtved's death and financial difficulties, construction was halted, leaving the church incomplete and in ruins for almost 150 years.
In 1874, financier Carl Frederik Tietgen acquired the site and commissioned architect Ferdinand Meldahl to complete the church, which was finally opened in 1894.
This history reflects Denmark's evolving architectural styles and political changes, including a controversial sale that led to a corruption trial but eventual acquittal.
Place Guide
The Dome1894
The largest church dome in Scandinavia, spanning 31 meters, features a colorful fresco inspired by St. Peter's Basilica and rests on twelve columns, showcasing Roman Baroque style.
Statues of TheologiansLate 19th century
Encircling the church grounds are statues of important Danish and international ecclesiastical figures, including Søren Kierkegaard, symbolizing the church's theological heritage.
Front Portico Inscription1894
The gold-lettered inscription on the church's front portico reads 'HERRENS ORD BLIVER EVINDELIG', emphasizing the enduring nature of the Lord's word.
Contact
Phone: (340) 776-1315
