Befrielsessten i Gullestrup
A 1949 liberation stone honoring Denmark's freedom in the quiet village of Gullestrup.
A Monument to Danish Liberation
Befrielsessten i Gullestrup is a liberation stone memorial situated in the small satellite village of Gullestrup, approximately 3 kilometers north of Herning's city center in Midtjylland. The monument was erected in 1949, following the end of World War II, as part of a broader movement across Denmark to commemorate the nation's struggle for freedom and independence. The stone was established on the initiative of local timber merchant Christian, reflecting the community's desire to preserve the memory of this pivotal period in Danish history.Setting and Location
The memorial stands on Trælundvej, positioned north of Gullestrup School's parking area, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors exploring the village. Gullestrup itself is a modest residential community with approximately 1,937 inhabitants, nestled between major routes and surrounded by the characteristic Danish landscape of Midtjylland. The location offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere typical of rural Danish villages, where historical monuments are often integrated into everyday community spaces rather than isolated in grand civic centers.Historical Significance
The liberation stone belongs to a significant tradition of Danish war memorials and freedom monuments that emerged in the years following World War II. These monuments served multiple purposes: honoring those who suffered during the occupation, celebrating Denmark's regained sovereignty, and providing focal points for collective memory and civic identity. The 1949 dedication date places this memorial within the first wave of postwar commemoration, a time when Danish communities were actively reasserting their national identity and processing the trauma of the occupation years.Visitor Experience
As an outdoor memorial park, Befrielsessten offers visitors a quiet space for reflection and historical contemplation. The site requires no formal admission and remains accessible throughout the year, allowing locals and travelers to pay respects or learn about this chapter of Danish history at their own pace. The modest scale and integration into the village landscape create an intimate, authentic experience that contrasts with larger, more formal national monuments, offering insight into how smaller communities preserved their wartime memories.Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the memorial's inscriptions and surrounding landscape. The site is accessible year-round and free to visit.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Løvbakke Skov forest, located just north of Gullestrup, for a fuller experience of the area's natural and historical heritage.
- Take time to read any plaques or inscriptions carefully; they provide context about the monument's significance and the community's wartime experience.
- The site is located near Gullestrup School, so plan your visit outside school hours if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
A brief summary to Befrielsessten i Gullestrup
- Trælundvej, Herning, 7400, DK
Getting There
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Car from Herning City Center
Drive north from Herning city center via Sundsvej toward Gullestrup, approximately 3 kilometers. Follow signs toward Gullestrup village and Trælundvej. Parking is available near Gullestrup School's parking area, adjacent to the memorial. Journey time is approximately 8–12 minutes depending on traffic. No toll required.
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Bus from Herning
Regional bus services connect Herning to Gullestrup village. Journey time is typically 15–25 minutes depending on the route and service frequency. Check local Midtjylland transport schedules for current timetables. Buses generally stop within walking distance of the memorial site. Single fare costs approximately 25–35 DKK.
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Bicycle from Herning
Gullestrup is accessible by bicycle from Herning via flat, well-maintained cycling routes typical of Midtjylland. The 3-kilometer journey takes approximately 12–18 minutes and follows local cycle paths. This is a popular option for exploring the region's villages and memorials.
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Walking from Gullestrup Village Center
From Gullestrup village center, the memorial is accessible on foot via Trælundvej. The walk takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on your starting point within the village. The route follows local roads with modest traffic and is suitable for most fitness levels.
