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Esrum

Esrum Abbey is situated in North Zealand in Denmark. It was originally founded as a Benedictine monastery in the first half of the 12th century. The Danish Archbishop Eskil converted the monastery to Cistercian abbey as a daughter house of Clairvaux in 1151. Together with Herrevad it became Denmark's most important abbey. From Esrum several daughter houses were founded in Denmark - Vitskøl (1158), Sorø (1162) and Guldholm(1192) and in Pomerania ? Dargun (1172, moved to Eldena 1199) and Kolbacz (1173). After the reformation in 1536 the abbey was dissolved and large parts of the complex were torn down. The construction materials were reused ? notably in the construction of Frederiksborg and Kronborg Castles nearby. Today only the eastern wing of the abbey can be seen, but the remains of the huge monastery complex have been identified archaeologically. The abbey's buildings were grouped in two complexes immediately south of the massive cruciform church; the rectangular cloister attached to the southern wall of the church and a second complex of buildings grouped around an eastern courtyard including the remaining wing. Surface finds of brick and stone bear witness to a richly decorated architecture.

Today Esrum Abbey is owned by the Danish state. The buildings were restored extensively in 1992 and a monastery garden was established. The abbey is part of the attraction Esrum Abbey & Mill Farm focusing on the cultural and natural heritage of the area. Esrum Abbey & Mill Farm offers a wide range of experiences including exhibitions, lectures, talks and tours, education programs and team building. Throughout the year a number of larger events are staged - a major event being the yearly Knight's market.