Madsebakke Bronze Age Rock Carvings
Denmark’s largest Bronze Age rock carving field, where ships, sun symbols and ancient footprints emerge from a quiet Bornholm hillside of weathered granite.
Tucked between Allinge and Sandvig on North Bornholm, Madsebakke is Denmark’s largest field of Bronze Age rock carvings. Up to 3,000 years old, the petroglyphs spread across a sloping granite outcrop, with ship figures, sun crosses and mysterious footprints picked out in red paint to make them visible. Simple paths, information boards and open farmland views create a tranquil, time‑slipping stop where you can stand exactly where ritual gatherings once took place.
A brief summary to Madsebakke
- Stadionvej 1, Allinge, 3770, DK
- +4556959500
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Give your eyes time to adjust and move slowly around the rock; the ship and sun carvings often appear more clearly when viewed from a low angle or in raking light.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, as the exposed granite can be uneven and slippery in wet weather despite the short, easy approach.
- Respect the conservation rules: avoid stepping on the carved surfaces or tracing them with fingers so the shallow lines can survive future weathering.
- Bring a light jacket; the exposed hilltop catches coastal breezes even on warm days, especially in the evening when the light is best for viewing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus from Rønne to Allinge
From Rønne, take a regional bus towards Allinge–Sandvig; services typically run at least hourly in daytime and the journey takes about 45–55 minutes. A single adult ticket usually costs around 40–60 DKK depending on route and time of day. From central Allinge it is an easy walk of around 15–25 minutes on pavements and paths to reach the Madsebakke rock slope. Buses can be busy in summer, so allow extra time if you need to catch a specific departure.
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Bicycle from Allinge or Sandvig
Bornholm is well set up for cycling, and Madsebakke lies close to local cycle routes between Allinge and Sandvig. From either town centre, expect a relaxed 10–20 minute ride on minor roads and bike paths with a few gentle slopes. Standard bike rental in the area generally costs around 100–150 DKK per day. Surfaces are mostly paved or compacted gravel, but be prepared for wind exposure and take care when leaving your bike near the access path so as not to block farm tracks.
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Taxi from Rønne or island resorts
Taxis on Bornholm can take you directly to the small access road near Madsebakke. From Rønne the drive typically takes 30–35 minutes, while from closer coastal resorts on North Bornholm it may be as little as 10–20 minutes. Fares from Rønne often fall in the range of 350–500 DKK depending on time of day and waiting time, and are lower for shorter local trips. Taxis should be booked in advance, especially outside high season or in the evening.
Madsebakke location weather suitability
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Madsebakke
Bronze Age stories etched into Bornholm granite
Madsebakke is a low, sloping granite hill just inland from the coast between Allinge and Sandvig, but its modest profile hides one of Northern Europe’s most important Bronze Age rock carving sites. Scattered across the rock are dozens of petroglyphs – ships, wheel-shaped sun symbols and pairs of feet – carved gradually over several centuries roughly 2,500–3,000 years ago. The field here is the largest concentration of such carvings in Denmark, turning this quiet patch of countryside into a key site for understanding Scandinavian prehistory. The granite itself once attracted quarrying, and several nearby carving fields were destroyed in the 19th century. Madsebakke’s main outcrop survived largely because the stone was considered poor for industrial use. Today the bedrock is protected, and many of the motifs are traced with a thin layer of red paint so their shallow lines can still be read against the weathered rock under changing light.Symbols of sun, sea and ritual life
As you move along the rock, you can pick out elongated ship figures with high, curling prows, often interpreted as stylised longboats cutting across imagined seas. Circular crosses enclosed in rings – the so‑called sun crosses – hint at a cosmology where the sun, cycles and navigation were closely linked. Nearby, carved footprints seem to step across the rock, perhaps marking the presence of deities, ancestors or participants in ceremonies. Archaeological excavations around the rock have revealed fire-cracked stones, traces of stone paving and long hearths, suggesting that Madsebakke functioned as a ritual gathering place rather than just an isolated rock art panel. The combination of carvings, controlled fire and prepared surfaces points to ceremonies that may have blended offerings, communal meals, music and dance. The exact meanings are lost, but the physical evidence anchors the site in the lived religious landscape of the late Bronze Age.A quiet landscape shaped by protection and care
The rock and its immediate surroundings form part of a protected area of open fields, low vegetation and scattered trees. Simple paths bring you close to the carvings without dominating the landscape, and low fencing guides you away from the most fragile surfaces. Information panels explain the key motifs and outline the site’s discovery in the 1880s, when systematic recording of Bornholm’s rock art began in earnest. Conservation here is a constant balancing act. Granite weathers faster than many imagine, and lichen, frost and modern air pollution all contribute to the slow softening of the carved lines. To reduce impact, visitors are urged not to walk on the carved areas or trace the figures by hand. The red paint you see is not decoration but a reversible conservation tool that makes the carvings legible while allowing specialists to maintain and, if necessary, renew the markings.Experiencing Madsebakke with time and light
A visit to Madsebakke is less about spectacle and more about slowing down. The carvings are relatively small, and it takes time for your eyes to adjust and the motifs to emerge from the speckled granite. Moving around the rock, changing your viewing angle and letting shadows fall across the surface can suddenly reveal a ship or sun symbol you had just missed. The surroundings reinforce this reflective mood. Beyond the rock, you look out over farmland and, in places, towards the rocky coastline that once framed Bronze Age seafaring. Birds, wind in the grass and distant village sounds form the natural soundtrack. Many visitors pair a focused half‑hour at the carvings with a gentle walk on nearby paths, letting the experience settle while remaining within the same historic landscape.Bornholm’s wider network of rock carvings
Madsebakke does not stand alone. Bornholm holds numerous rock carving sites, from smaller isolated panels to other multi‑motif outcrops. What makes Madsebakke distinctive is the density and variety of images gathered in one place. Here you can see almost the full range of motifs known from the island – ships, sun symbols, cup marks and feet – in a single compact area. This cluster has made Madsebakke a reference point for researchers comparing Scandinavian rock art traditions. For travellers, it provides an accessible way to step into that scholarly conversation, not through heavy interpretation, but by standing in front of the rock and considering what it meant to return to the same surface generation after generation. The result is a visit that quietly links present‑day Bornholm to its Bronze Age coastal communities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Domen
0.5 km
Explore the captivating cultural center of Domen in Allinge, where art meets stunning coastal views, perfect for history and culture enthusiasts.
Ravnedalen
2.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ravnedalen in Allinge, Denmark - a perfect scenic spot for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Døndalen
8.6 km
Discover Døndalen, a breathtaking scenic spot on Bornholm, known for its lush forests, stunning cliffs, and tranquil waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers.
The Sanctuary Rocks
9.5 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and caves of The Sanctuary Rocks in Bornholm, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Svartingedalen
9.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Svartingedalen in Hasle, Denmark - a natural haven for tranquility and adventure.
Spellinge Mose
10.4 km
Discover the serene hiking paradise of Spellinge Mose on Bornholm, where nature's beauty meets tranquil marshlands and scenic trails.
Præstemosen shelter, Klemensker
12.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Præstemosen Shelter in Klemensker, a peaceful campground ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Kultippen Hasle
13.5 km
Explore Kultippen Hasle, a captivating historical landmark in Denmark that beautifully showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural charm.
Bornholm
14.4 km
Discover Bornholm, the 'Pearl of the Baltic': Explore dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, medieval ruins, and a vibrant arts scene on Denmark's sun-kissed island escape in the Baltic Sea.
Melsted Havn
15.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture at Melsted Havn, a picturesque marina in Gudhjem, Denmark, perfect for nature lovers and sailing enthusiasts.
Kræmmerhuset Kunsthåndværk
15.4 km
Explore Rønne's vibrant handicraft scene at Kræmmerhuset Kunsthåndværk, where creativity meets tradition in a delightful shopping experience.
Slemmegrav
19.0 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Bornholms Brand Park
19.2 km
Discover the excitement of Bornholms Brand Park, Denmark's premier racecourse, where thrilling races and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
Bornholms Sommerrevy
19.3 km
Immerse yourself in the lively performances at Bornholms Sommerrevy, where local talent shines and summer entertainment comes to life in Aakirkeby.
Kongemindet
20.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kongemindet, a must-visit attraction in Aakirkeby, Bornholm, for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Moseløkken Stenbrudsmuseum
1.2 km
Working granite quarry museum on Bornholm’s Hammerknuden, where industrial heritage, hands-on tools and dramatic cliffside scenery tell the story of stone.
Opal Lake
1.8 km
A flooded granite quarry turned emerald lake, Opal Lake on Bornholm blends raw cliffs, deep clear water and coastal views with swimming, cliff jumps and rugged trails.
Hammeren Lighthouse
1.9 km
Compact granite lighthouse on Bornholm’s highest headland, offering free summer access, sweeping Baltic views and heather-clad coastal walking trails.
Salomons kapel
2.0 km
Bornholm’s legendary Echo Valley, where dramatic cliffs and ancient woodlands converge in a natural amphitheater renowned for its resonant echoes.
Hammer Odde Lighthouse
2.1 km
A working coastal lighthouse on Bornholm’s northern tip, where granite shores, Baltic horizons, and historic navigation meet along scenic walking trails.
Hammeren
2.2 km
Discover Ekkodalen, Bornholm's longest rift valley, famed for its echoing cliffs and scenic forest trails.
Æggehønen
2.3 km
Snogebæk Strand offers soft white sands, shallow clear waters, and a relaxed village atmosphere—an idyllic beach escape on Bornholm’s scenic southern coast.
Den Våde Ovn
2.3 km
Explore Nexø's maritime heritage and wartime history in a historic harbor-side museum.
Hammershus Castle Ruins
2.4 km
Bornholm’s great clifftop fortress, where vast medieval ruins, Baltic Sea panoramas and a striking modern visitor centre bring 800 years of history to life.
Løvehovederne
2.5 km
Dramatic granite cliffs on Bornholm’s wild north coast, where weathered rock profiles resemble lions gazing out over the Baltic Sea.
Slotslyngen
3.6 km
Wander wind-tossed forests and granite outcrops, where wild nature, dramatic coastlines, and centuries of history converge on Bornholm’s untamed northwest.
Bornholm Technical Collection
3.9 km
Explore Bornholm’s seafaring traditions, WWII history, and everyday island life at Nexø Museum, set in a historic waterfront warehouse in Denmark’s second largest town.
Pissebækken
4.4 km
Explore Bornholm’s wild northwest at Slotslyngen: a dramatic coastal forest of ancient oaks, boulders, heather moors, and medieval castle views.
Blåskinsdalen
6.7 km
Discover Ekkodalen, Bornholm's longest rift valley, famed for its echoing cliffs and scenic trails through Almindingen Forest.
Jons Kapel
7.0 km
Ekkodalen is Bornholm’s iconic echoing valley, where dense woods and mossy cliffs create a natural amphitheater filled with history, folklore, and geological wonders.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Det Gamle Posthus,Allinge
1.0 km
Traditional Danish cuisine and warm hospitality in a historic post office building, nestled in the scenic coastal town of Allinge on Bornholm’s north shore.
Ellas Restaurant og Konditori
1.1 km
Classic Danish dishes and irresistible cakes in a charming seaside setting, capturing the spirit of Bornholm in the heart of Allinge’s historic harbor district.
Restaurant Margeritten
1.1 km
Bornholm’s Restaurant Margeritten serves inventive Danish cuisine in Allinge’s historic heart, blending island flavors, modern style, and authentic local atmosphere.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
1.2 km
Sea-scented smokehouse and restaurant in Allinge, serving Bornholm’s legendary smoked fish, iconic local dishes, and classic Danish maritime atmosphere.
Le Port i Vang på Bornholm
4.9 km
Cliffside dining in Vang, Bornholm, serving seasonal Danish-French cuisine with sweeping Baltic sunset views and an intimate, refined coastal setting.
Stammershalle Badehotel
6.8 km
Historic seaside residence offering gourmet cuisine, wellness retreats, and sweeping Baltic Sea views on Bornholm’s dramatic northern coast.
The Ranch
8.2 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at The Ranch in Hasle - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Hasle Smokehouse
12.6 km
Hasle Smokehouse is Bornholm’s classic fish smokehouse, famous for traditional alderwood-smoked herring and authentic local flavors by the scenic Baltic coast.
Norresan
13.5 km
Waterfront café and bar in Gudhjem, Bornholm, serving regional specialties with panoramic Baltic Sea views, local charm, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
17.4 km
Culinary tradition and botanical serenity blend at Restaurant Bolsterbjerg, where local dishes, lush gardens, and Bornholmish warmth create a truly memorable island escape.
Christianshøjkroen
19.3 km
Historic country inn and top restaurant near Aakirkeby, offering contemporary Nordic cuisine in a picturesque rural setting on Bornholm.
Restaurant Ekkodalshuset
20.5 km
Bornholm’s beloved Ekkodalshuset serves up legendary omelettes and classic Danish cuisine at the doorstep of Echo Valley, blending hearty tradition with island hospitality.
Râzapâz
20.5 km
Modern Danish small plates, natural wines, and vibrant atmosphere at Râzapâz—a culinary highlight and social hotspot in the heart of Rønne, Bornholm.
Snurra
20.6 km
Discover Snurra in Rønne - A charming brasserie offering delicious local cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.
Texas Bornholm
20.6 km
Texas Bornholm: Where lively Western barbecue meets island hospitality in downtown Rønne, serving up bold Tex-Mex flavors for adventurous appetites.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Baltic Sea Glass
16.8 km
Discover Bornholm’s acclaimed glass studio, featuring live demonstrations, Nordic artistry, and specialty glassware in a picturesque, light-filled Gudhjem setting.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
18.3 km
Immerse yourself in Bornholm’s vibrant food culture at The Bornholm Farm Shop, where local produce, artisanal treats, and Danish rural tradition meet near Rønne.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
19.0 km
Discover authentic Bornholm crafts and specialties at Klippeøens Gårdbutik, set in the historic Hvide Hus with stunning Baltic Sea views.
Torvehal Bornholm
19.6 km
A vibrant island market in Rønne offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Bornholm flavors—all under one roof, reflecting the island’s food heritage.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
25.2 km
Discover Bornholm’s milling heritage and local flavors at Bornholms Valsemølle—a historic flour mill and farm shop nestled in the island’s heart near Aakirkeby.
Art Box Bornholm
27.6 km
Discover Art Box Bornholm: Svaneke's hub for art supplies, local artworks, and handcrafted jewelry in a welcoming atmosphere.
Karamelleriet ApS
27.8 km
Handmade caramels crafted before your eyes at Svaneke harbor—Karamelleriet ApS offers authentic Bornholm sweetness and a taste of artisanal island tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Underbar
0.5 km
A contemporary seaside bar in Allinge offering panoramic views, Nordic-style cocktails, and a true taste of Bornholm’s relaxed coastal social scene.
Ølstauan
0.8 km
Iconic seaside bar and restaurant in Allinge, Bornholm, offering local cuisine, excellent Danish beers, and authentic island atmosphere with harbor views.
Terrassen
1.0 km
Savor local wines, inventive cocktails, and Nordic cuisine on an atmospheric terrace blending Bornholm heritage with a lively Allinge social scene.
Penyllan Brewery
4.6 km
A standout microbrewery on Bornholm’s Allinge harbour, Penyllan fuses Danish and international craft traditions to serve unique, barrel-aged beers in a historic seaside warehouse.
Provianten
13.9 km
Seaside bar and eatery in Gudhjem, Bornholm, celebrated for Nordic-inspired hospitality, seasonal cuisine, harbor views, and live local music sessions.
Spektakel-bar
14.0 km
Experience award-winning burgers and tapas in Gudhjem's charming Spektakel-bar.
Den Marinerede Sild
20.9 km
Experience Bornholm's finest craft beers and whiskeys at Den Marinerede Sild, Rønne's cozy pub hub.
Café Lille Per
20.9 km
Experience authentic Danish café culture at Café Lille Per in Rønne's bustling town square.
Dagligstuen
25.0 km
Experience Bornholm's brewing heritage at Dagligstuen, Aakirkeby's cozy beer hall offering local craft beers and Danish snacks.
Vinøst wine bar & restaurant
27.6 km
Contemporary wine bar and restaurant in Svaneke’s historic heart, showcasing local ingredients, natural wines, and warm Bornholm hospitality in a charming Nordic atmosphere.
Madvig
27.6 km
Experience the charm of Svaneke at Madvig – a cozy pub and lounge blending historical elegance with modern comfort.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
29.7 km
Atmospheric seaside craft beer bar and eatery in a historic smokehouse, offering rare Mikkeller brews, hearty burgers, and genuine Bornholm hospitality near Svaneke.
Sørens Værtshus
35.4 km
Experience the heart of Snogebæk at Sørens Værtshus: stone-baked pizzas, live music, and authentic Danish 'hygge' by the harbor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
