Harald's runestone

The three-sided stone features runic inscriptions and detailed carvings depicting Christ alongside traditional Norse animal motifs measuring approximately three meters in height.

King Harald Bluetooth commissioned this monument around 965 CE to honor his parents Gorm and Thyra while documenting his unification of Denmark and Norway.

The inscriptions on the stone record the first written mention of Denmark and mark the transition from Norse paganism to Christianity in Scandinavian territories.

Located in front of Jelling Church, the runestone remains accessible to visitors throughout the year and stands protected by a climate-controlled glass enclosure.

The stone contains the earliest representation of Jesus Christ found in Scandinavia, rendered in a distinct Norse artistic style from the Mammen period.

Location: Vejle Municipality

Part of: Jelling stones

GPS coordinates: 55.75657,9.41964

Latest update: March 3, 2025 09:38