Trip to Roskilde, part 1

We took a weekend trip to Roskilde, partially in celebration of my birthday, mostly to explore the country.

Traveling Denmark-style: taking bikes on a train with luggage on the back. The train took about 30 minutes.

When we got into Roskilde, most shops were closed, including this chocolate shop. I was sad.

Store windows are a little odd, not sure why their shirts are pulled up over their bras (yes they sell bras)

Blockbuster still exists

There is something about this poster that is really appealing to me. She is fashionable, wearing heels, on a bike, having just went grocery shopping, with her kid, in the rain. She's awesome. 

City of Roskilde with the Cathedral towers in the background

Viking Ship Museum - they uncovered 5 Viking boats at the bottom of the Roskilde Fjord and have preserved them in this museum. They were originally sunk in order to keep invaders from navigating into the fjord. In addition, they rebuilt all 5 using Viking building techniques (no modern tools or techniques used).

The museum is on the water, built partially in the fjord.

Commerce / trading ship

From the other side

In order to make the curved pieces in the ship, they took wood with natural curves. Those Vikings were some smart guys.

Jon, former Viking captain

Robin, on a boat. They had a bunch of Viking clothing to try. During the summer you can try on whole outfits and go for rides on the recreated boats. 

1/10 scale model of a 60-man war ship, with the actual remnants in the background

Remnants of the 60-man war ship

Viking hat?

Recreated boats starting the winterizing process (rain/snow in the bottom with rot the wood)

Many boats made with Viking techniques, iron and wood nails

Next to the museum there is a shipyard where the Viking ships (among others) are still being built 

Roskilde Cathedral (Roskilde Domkirke)

Inside the main chapel

Among the many tombs

Margrete I (Queen of Denmark from 1387 - 1412)

Lots of tombs on the floor of the church

Tombs underground in with tiny doors

View from the Absalon's arch

Back of the cathedral

Angel 

Christian 4's chapel 

Beautiful iron work

The Glücksburger Chapel, Christian 9 and Louise's double sarcophagus with three women (Remembrance, Love, Grief) modeled after the sculptor's wife, who also modeled for the Little Mermaid. 

Day ends with great beer