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Jættestuen Grønhøj: A Stone Age Burial Chamber

Explore Jættestuen Grønhøj, a remarkably preserved Stone Age passage grave near Horsens, Denmark, offering a unique glimpse into prehistoric burial rituals and ancient craftsmanship.

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Jættestuen Grønhøj, located near Horsens, is a remarkably well-preserved passage grave dating back to the Stone Age, around 3200 BC. This ancient burial chamber offers a fascinating glimpse into Denmark's prehistoric past. Surrounded by 60 large curbstones, the site provides a tangible connection to the people who lived here over 5,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the burial chamber and admire the intricate dry-stone wall construction. The site is freely accessible and located in a scenic area near Bygholm Sø and Rugballegård Skov, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The site is a testament to the impressive engineering skills of the Stone Age people and their burial rituals. A visit to Grønhøj offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the tranquility of this ancient site.

A brief summary to Jættestuen grønhøj

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the site can be uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Bygholm Sø or through Rugballegård Skov.
  • Check out the archaeological exhibition at Horsens Museum to see artifacts found at Grønhøj.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Horsens, follow signs towards Hatting. Continue on Hattingvej. Look for signs indicating Grønhøj or Rugballegård Skov. Parking is available on Lovbyvej, a short walk from the site. The drive is approximately 10 minutes. No tolls or parking fees apply.

  • Public Transport

    From Horsens Station, take a local bus towards Hatting. Alight at a bus stop near Rugballegård Skov on Hattingvej. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to Jættestuen Grønhøj, following signs for the hiking trail around Bygholm Sø. A single bus fare within Horsens costs approximately 22 DKK.

  • Walking

    If you are already near Bygholm Sø, follow the hiking trail around the lake. Jættestuen Grønhøj is located approximately 100 meters from the trail on the western part of the south side of the lake, between Rugballegård Skov and Åbjergskoven. Look for signs indicating the site.

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Discover more about Jættestuen grønhøj

Jættestuen Grønhøj, situated in the rolling landscape near Horsens, is a captivating historical landmark that transports visitors back to the Danish Stone Age. This impressive passage grave, dating back to approximately 3200 BC, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural practices of the Neolithic people who once inhabited this region. Grønhøj, meaning "Green Mound" in Danish, is one of the best-preserved examples of a Jættestue (Giant's Chamber) in the country, offering a unique window into the burial rituals and beliefs of our ancestors. The site itself is a circular mound, approximately 25 meters in diameter and 3 meters high, encircled by an imposing ring of 60 large curbstones, each standing roughly one meter tall. These stones not only define the perimeter of the grave but also contribute to its imposing presence in the landscape. The burial chamber, though relatively small compared to other passage graves (measuring just 3.5 x 2.75 meters), is constructed with remarkable precision. Seven load-bearing stones and two capstones form the chamber, while a 4-meter-long passage provides access to the interior. One of the most striking features of Grønhøj is the intricate dry-stone wall that has been built between the curbstones and the load-bearing stones of the burial chamber. This wall, composed of small, tile-like stones, served to ensure that the chamber remained dry, protecting the remains of the interred. The craftsmanship involved in constructing this wall is truly impressive, showcasing the advanced building techniques of the Stone Age people. Grønhøj has a rich history of archaeological investigation. The first attempt to excavate the site occurred in 1832, with a young J.J.A. Worsaae, who would later become a renowned archaeologist, participating in the effort. However, the excavation was abruptly halted when one of the large capstones became dislodged and crashed into the chamber, narrowly missing the soldiers who were assisting with the dig. A more successful excavation took place in 1940, during which the passage grave was carefully restored. Inside the chamber, archaeologists discovered evidence of multiple burials spanning different periods of the Stone Age. The earliest finds, dating back to the initial use of the Jættestue (circa 3200-2400 BC), included a flint ax and fragments of clay vessels. Later burials, from the Late Stone Age (circa 2400-1800 BC), yielded arrowheads, parts of a flint dagger, and additional pottery shards. These discoveries suggest that Grønhøj was used as a burial site for centuries, reflecting its significance to the local community. Outside the entrance to the chamber, archaeologists unearthed fragments of approximately 100 clay vessels, many of which were beautifully decorated. These vessels are believed to have been placed as offerings, demonstrating the reverence and respect that the Stone Age people held for their ancestors. At other passage graves in Denmark, archaeologists have found as many as 50,000 pottery shards, representing at least 500 individual vessels, highlighting the scale of these ritual practices. Today, visitors to Grønhøj can freely explore the site and marvel at the impressive construction of the passage grave. The entrance to the burial chamber remains open, allowing those who are agile enough to enter and experience the interior firsthand. However, it is essential to treat the site with respect, recognizing its historical significance and avoiding any damage to the ancient structure. Located in a scenic area between Rugballegård Skov (Rugballegård Forest) and Åbjergskoven (Åbjerg Forest), Grønhøj is easily accessible and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The site is situated just 100 meters from the popular hiking trail around Bygholm Sø (Bygholm Lake), making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy combining history with outdoor recreation. Grønhøj is not just a historical monument; it is also a place of natural beauty. The surrounding landscape provides a stunning backdrop for the ancient grave, creating a sense of peace and serenity. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the nearby forests, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or simply sit and contemplate the passage of time. To enhance your visit, consider exploring the archaeological exhibition at Horsens Museum, where you can see some of the artifacts that were discovered at Grønhøj, including pottery shards, clay vessels, spoons, axes, and daggers. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the people who built and used this remarkable passage grave. Grønhøj stands as a powerful reminder of Denmark's ancient past, offering a tangible connection to the Stone Age people who shaped the landscape and laid the foundations for the society we know today. A visit to this remarkable site is an enriching experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the history and heritage of Denmark. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Jættestuen Grønhøj is a destination that should not be missed. Its well-preserved structure, rich history, and stunning natural setting make it a truly unforgettable place to visit.

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