Dejbjerg brings together archaeological discoveries, historic buildings and trails through a protected landscape. The richly decorated wagon finds give the area a distinctive cultural and historical focus; Dejbjerglund and the church tell the story of different building periods. There are also burial mounds, heathland and marked trails. When planning your visit, you can decide whether you are most interested in archaeological traces, architectural history or the landscape.
The Dejbjerg Wagons and Their History
The two richly decorated Dejbjerg wagons were found at Dejbjerg Præstegårdsmose in 1881 and 1883. Shortly before the birth of Christ, two wagons were sacrificed in a West Jutland bog near Dejbjerg. The sacrifice therefore took place long before their discovery. The wagons were probably ceremonial vehicles belonging to a leader of high social standing. When considering their history, it is worth keeping the different periods distinct: the sacrifice dates to shortly before the birth of Christ, the discoveries to 1881 and 1883; their interpretation as ceremonial vehicles remains probable.
Building Periods at Dejbjerglund and the Church
The present main building at Dejbjerglund was built around 1850. Dejbjerglund has served as the vicarage since 1922. Traces of the former moat can still be seen at the main building. This offers a glimpse not only of the building’s history, but also of the design of its surroundings.
Dejbjerg Church also reflects several building periods. Its Romanesque nave retains both its south and north doors; the north door is bricked up. The church was extended during the Gothic period, when the tower and porch were also built. The imposing altarpiece and pulpit date from the beginning of the 17th century. The Romanesque church, Gothic additions and later furnishings can thus be recognised as distinct historical elements.
Dejbjerg Heath: Burial Mounds and Far-Reaching Views
Dejbjerg Heath, covering approximately 118 hectares, is a protected area. A group of 25 prehistoric burial mounds lies in its western part. From the viewpoint by the burial mounds, you can see Ringkøbing Fjord and the North Sea, about 20 km away, in clear weather. The burial mounds and the distant views show two sides of the area: prehistoric traces in the landscape and a view that depends on clear weather. There are tables and benches at the car parks on Dejbjerg Heath.
Marked Trails and Practical Information
Three marked trails in Dejbjerg Plantation and on Dejbjerg Heath are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. The marked nature trail at Dejbjerg Præstegårdssø, about 10 km north of Skjern, is 1.5 km long and offers easy access to Dejbjerg Plantation. Trail information may vary seasonally. The trail at Dejbjerg Præstegårdssø is for pedestrians, not cyclists, and may be temporarily closed because of hunting. Check current trail conditions before your visit.
More Historic Traces in the Area
Both the Drivvejen walking route and regional cycle route 16 run through Dejbjerg Bakker. The hills were one of the last refuges of the so-called Rakker. Remains of the barracks where the prisoners were housed can still be seen in parts of Dejbjerg Plantation. At Troldbanke, you can experience the fields of Iron Age farmers. The surrounding area thus offers trails through the hills alongside several distinct historical themes.
Discover more destinations: Skjern, Tim, Lem, Bjerregård, Muldbjerg, Hvide Sande, Nørre Lyngvig, Hovvig
For the overview of the wider area: Ringkøbing-Skjern Municipality.
