Named after the Danish king Christian VII, Christianfeld is the only UNESCO World Heritage-listed town in Denmark. It was founded in the 18th century by the Moravian Church and was ceded to Prussia in 1864 following the Second Schleswig War. Christiansfeld is renowned for its simple yet elegant architecture and delicious honey cakes, which have been baked using the same secret recipe since 1783.
Things to do in Christiansfeld
Begin your visit to Christiansfeld at the Moravian Church, an unembellished house of worship that’s beautifully illuminated by sunlight. With its black-tiled roof, it contrasts with the surrounding houses, all of which are topped by red tiles. Take note of the whitewashed benches and hand-forged chandeliers within the church’s interior, as well as its lack of supporting columns, which makes it quite unique in Denmark.
To really immerse yourself in the history of Christiansfeld, join a guided tour to learn about its construction by German craftsmen according to a strict philosophy. It was designed as a planned community to house Denmark’s Moravian Brethren, with its relatively austere architecture reflecting the humility of the religion.
See the Brothers’ House and Sisters’ House where unmarried men and women once lived, as well as the Widows’ House where grieving wives spent their days. No visit to Christiansfeld is complete without trying the town’s signature honey cakes, which are still made in the original bakery. Cafes and restaurants also line Prætorius Torv, a paved square named after the first Moravian minister in Christiansfeld.
Getting around Christiansfeld
Christiansfeld is a 20-minute drive from Kolding and just under an hour from Billund Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses are the main means of getting to Christiansfeld and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.