Hospital of the Holy Ghost, Aalborg

The Hospital of the Holy Ghost is a medieval monastery and hospital in Aalborg featuring four wings arranged around a rectangular garden courtyard. Beneath the complex lies a vaulted basement with a footprint of about 40 meters, one of the largest of its kind in Denmark.

Maren Hemmingsdatter founded this hospice in 1431 by donating a house and land to shelter poor and needy people. The building evolved over centuries with various architectural elements added during different periods.

The Chapter Room displays Renaissance frescoes painted between 1508 and 1520 that cover the vaulted ceiling with medieval designs. These artworks show the artistic skill and tastes of the period when this place was active.

The site now operates as a retirement home for senior citizens while maintaining its historical buildings and structures. Plan your visit in advance since it functions as a private residential facility and visitor access is limited.

During World War II this complex became the birthplace of the Churchill Club, Denmark's first resistance group. This youth-led organization played an important role in early opposition activities against the occupation.