This year’s excursion will bring us on an exciting journey exploring the historical, theological, and cultural heritage associated with the Rosenkrantz family on rural Djursland near Aarhus. Known from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the Rosenkrantz family was integral to the political and religious transformation of Reformation Denmark.

Statesman Jørgen Rosenkrantz (1523-1596) played a significant role in the political and religious transformations of Denmark during the Reformation. A devout supporter of Lutheranism, Jørgen Rosenkrantz was instrumental in promoting the spread of Protestant ideals and ensuring the Lutheran Reformation took root in Denmark. His influence extended through his roles as a member of the Danish Council of the Realm and his work in implementing Lutheran doctrines within the country's governance and educational systems.

The son of Jørgen, Holger Rosenkrantz (1574-1642), often referred to as “The Learned Holger,” was widely recognized for his intellectual contributions to Danish Lutheranism in the early seventeenth century. A former student at Wittenberg, he authored numerous theological works that presented his own, mystical interpretation of the Lutheran heritage. Moreover, he was actively involved in the establishment of Lutheran educational institutions.

While largely forgotten today, Jørgen and Holger Rosenkrantz were key figures in shaping the intellectual and political landscape of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Denmark, leaving a lasting legacy on the nation’s religious and cultural heritage.

Join us for an enriching day filled with captivating sights, informative tours, and delightful culinary experiences.

Itinerary (preliminary)

• 12:30 PM: Departure from Aarhus University. Lunch (sandwich and water) will be served on the bus.
• 1:00 PM: Arrival at Hornslet Church. We will have a presentation and guided tour focusing on the historical significance of the church and its connections to the Rosenkrantz family, whose mausoleum is in the church.
• 1:50 PM: Departure from Hornslet Church.
• 2:05 PM: Arrival at Rosenholm Castle. Participants will be divided into three groups for a guided tour of the castle, followed by coffee and cake in the grand Knight’s Hall.
• 4:15 PM: Departure from Rosenholm Castle.
• 4:45 PM: Arrival in Ebeltoft. You will have free time to explore the charming town on your own.
• 6:00 PM: Dinner at Restaurant Mellem Jyder. The menu includes two pieces of traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød) and a glass of beer or lemonade.
• 8:00 PM: Departure from Ebeltoft.
• 9:00 PM: Arrival back at Aarhus University.

Total cost of the excursion: DKK 550

We look forward to having you join us on this historical adventure in the footsteps of Rosenkrantz.