This stage's 17 kilometers take you back in time. Urnehoved Tingsted was once a medieval assembly site and the center of many dramatic events. You can also experience the most beautiful bridge on the route, Povls Bro, and the oldest wooden building in Denmark, the church tower of Kliplev Church.
Rødekro-Kliplev
Povl's Bridge
Povl's Bridge is a historical gem that carries the Ancient Road over the Bjerndrup Mill Stream south of Urnehoved. The single-arched granite bridge is named after the legendary Povl's Inn, which once stood north of the bridge.
The bridge has a history that dates back to 1744, when the first oak bridge was built on the site. However, in 1780 it was replaced by a new wooden bridge, which required repeated repairs and replacements. Therefore, the current granite bridge was constructed in 1844, consisting of roughly hewn granite squares of various sizes.
In 1970, the bridge was restored and reinforced, and today you will find that it stands proud and almost as it did in 1844.
Old Ox Road 14, 6200 Aabenraa
Urnehoved Thingstead
Today, Urnehoved Thingstead is a memorial park located by the Ancient Road (Hærvejen). Here, amidst the sheltering trees and open fields, you can sense how important decisions were made at the regional assembly of Southern Jutland from 1074 to 1523.
In the Middle Ages, free men met with the king to discuss and resolve significant matters, and it is also recorded that royal homage ceremonies took place here. In 1137, King Erik Emune was killed at this site.
Even after so many years, Urnehoved Thingstead remains a focal point. Following the Reunification in 1920, the memorial grove has been used for public meetings and community gatherings, including on Constitution Day.
The exact location of the assembly site is uncertain, but you will find that the memorial park is a beautiful and symbolic place that connects us to the past.
Urnehoved Thingstead, 6360 Tinglev
The Wheel Grave
The Wheel Grave in Hjordkær is situated close to the Hærvejen and is a fascinating ancient burial site from the Bronze Age. Haderslev Museum investigated the area in 1980 and found several plowed-over burial mounds. The largest mound, constructed in four stages, served as a burial site from the end of the Stone Age to the Bronze Age, changing its appearance with each burial.
The most remarkable find is the Wheel Grave, a unique type of grave in Denmark. It consists of a stone circle with a diameter of about 10 meters, where five rows of stones lead into the burial chamber in the center. To make room for an industrial enterprise, the Wheel Grave was moved 300 meters to the south in a collaboration between Museum Sønderjylland and Aabenraa Municipality.
When you walk on the Hærvejen, it is an ideal opportunity to take a break and visit the Wheel Grave. It is very close to the route and is definitely worth a visit.
The Wheel Grave, Aabenraa, 6230 Rødekro
How do you get to and from the stage using public transport?
You can find your way to the stage using public transport by using the Rejseplanen and the Hærvejsapp. To get to the starting point of the stage, you should enter the destination 'Rødekro St.' in Rejseplanen. Once you arrive, you can use the Hærvejsapp to find your way to the Hærvej.
Useful links
Rejseplanen: www.rejseplanen.dk