Hjallerup: Church, Art and the History of Technology

If you are interested in church art, the history of technology or a traditional market, Hjallerup offers a range of themes to explore during your stay. Hjallerup Church, the mechanical museum, local artworks and the Hjallerup Market each have their own focus. You can choose your destination based on which of these sides of Hjallerup you would like to discover more closely.

Church and Glass Art

Hjallerup Church was built as a district church in the municipality of Dronninglund and was completed in time for its dedication on 6 September 1903. It is one of Denmark’s so-called “20,000-kroner churches.” The altar area is adorned with a stained-glass window by Helle Scarling. Another work belonging to the church, Håbstræet, was created in glass by Hjallerup glass artist Marlene Nørhave. The church’s history and glassworks offer different points of interest—from its dedication to artworks connected with Hjallerup.

The History of Technology and the Landscape

The Hjallerup Mechanical Museum is on the outskirts of town in a former riding hall. Its exhibits cover the mechanization of agriculture and the arrival of industry in Denmark over the course of the 20th century. One particular exhibit adds a special technological highlight: a prototype of one of Denmark’s first electric cars is on display. The museum thus offers a view of changes in agricultural work and industrial development, as well as an early electric-car prototype.

Hjallerup Lake is close to town, just behind the museum. The museum’s location thus has a clear connection to the surrounding landscape. If you are mainly interested in the history of technology, the museum is the main attraction; the lake complements this focus with another aspect of Hjallerup.

Art That Changes with Movement

The EKKO artwork is freely accessible around the clock. Inside, it gives the impression that its form rotates as you move. Your own movement is therefore an integral part of experiencing the artwork: its form seems to change depending on your viewpoint. This sets EKKO apart from the artworks at the church, which are described in terms of their use of glass and their connection to the altar area or Hjallerup Church.

Another local art story is associated with Pastor Laier. His first concrete sculptures were created in the 1930s and later filled his house and garden in Hjallerup. In the 1950s and 1960s, the sculpture garden was a tourist destination for thousands of visitors. You can arrange visits to the current site of Pastor Laier’s art by contacting Arne: +45 6145 1356. Check the contact details again before your trip.

The Hjallerup Market

The Hjallerup Market has been held since 1744 and has deep historical roots as one of the country’s largest horse markets. Since 1972, the market has taken place at Markedsgården on Algade in the southeastern part of town. The market program includes an animal show featuring horses and livestock, as well as a large funfair with rides. The horse-market history and today’s program offer different perspectives: one looks at the market’s historical significance, the other at its animal show and fairground rides.

When looking for a hotel in Hjallerup, you can start by considering what will shape your stay: church and glass art, the history of technology, an art visit or the market.

Discover more destinations: Øster Melholt, Brønderslev, Asaa, Gerå, Dronninglund

Return to the main travel overview: Brønderslev.