Dejbjerg: Wagon Finds, Church and Protected Heathland

Dejbjerg combines archaeological history with church architecture and protected heathland. The wagon finds and Dejbjerg Church are cultural highlights; Dejbjerg Hede and the plantation offer trails, burial mounds and viewpoints. Which aspect of the area interests you most can also shape your plans for your stay.

Wagon Finds and Dejbjerglund

The two elaborately decorated Dejbjerg wagons were found in Dejbjerg Præstegårdsmose in 1881 and 1883. Shortly before the birth of Christ, two wagons were sacrificed in a West Jutland bog near Dejbjerg. The wagons were probably ceremonial vehicles belonging to a leader of high social standing. The find site, dating and this cautiously phrased interpretation belong to different periods in the archaeological history.

Dejbjerglund also brings together the history of the building and its use. The present main building was constructed around 1850 and has served as a vicarage since 1922. Traces of the former moat can still be seen around the building. The construction date, its later institutional use and the visible traces of the moat each offer different clues to its history.

Dejbjerg Church: Romanesque and Gothic Building Phases

Both the south and north doorways have been preserved in the Romanesque nave of Dejbjerg Church; the north doorway is bricked up. The church was extended in the Gothic period, when its tower and porch were also built. The church therefore preserves several building phases, from the Romanesque structure to the Gothic additions.

The furnishings can also be dated: the impressive altarpiece and pulpit date from the beginning of the 17th century. When exploring the church, it is therefore worth considering its architecture and furnishings as distinct aspects from different periods.

Dejbjerg Hede and Trails Through the Landscape

The protected Dejbjerg Hede covers about 118 hectares. A group of 25 prehistoric burial mounds lies in its western part. In clear weather, visitors can see Ringkøbing Fjord and the North Sea from the viewpoint by the burial mounds; both are about 20 kilometres away. There are tables and benches at the car parks at Dejbjerg Hede.

Three marked trails in Dejbjerg Plantation and on Dejbjerg Hede can be used with a pushchair or wheelchair. Another marked nature trail runs by Dejbjerg Præstegårdssø, about 10 km north of Skjern. It is 1.5 km long and provides easy access to Dejbjerg Plantation. Route information for this nature trail may vary seasonally.

When planning your visit, it is also important to note the restrictions on the trail by Dejbjerg Præstegårdssø: it is for pedestrians, not cyclists, and may be temporarily closed due to hunting. Check whether the trail is accessible before your visit. This distinguishes it from the three marked trails that are designated for use with a pushchair or wheelchair.

More Trails and Cultural History in the Dejbjerg Hills

The Drivvejen hiking route and regional cycle route 16 both pass through the Dejbjerg Hills. They are two different routes: Drivvejen is a hiking route, while route 16 is a cycle route. The hills are also linked to the history of the so-called Rakker people and were one of their last refuges.

Further historical traces can be found at various locations in the surrounding area: remnants of the barracks where prisoners were housed can still be seen in parts of Dejbjerg Plantation. At Troldbanke, you can experience the fields of Iron Age farmers. These features complement the archaeological finds and building history with different forms of cultural history in the landscape.

Planning Your Stay in Dejbjerg

If you are looking for hotels for a stay in Dejbjerg, you can start by planning your trip around your interests: the wagon finds and church architecture offer cultural history, while the heath, burial mounds and trails provide other points of interest.

Discover more destinations: Skaven, Skjern, Muldbjerg, Østerby, Bork Havn, Stadil, Tim, Årgab

For the overview of the wider area: Ringkøbing-Skjern Municipality.