The Main Rampart

The central part of the fortifications

The Main Rampart is the key part and forms the main line of the fortifications in the system of ramparts, which were repeatedly extended and modified. Various construction phases are reflected in the cross-section of the earthwork, such as reinforcement with fieldstones or the brickwork of Valdemar’s Wall. Danish kings also used the Danevirke as a show of power. Only a large and very well organised workforce could construct such a massive monument.

It served as a defence for the Danes against territorial claims by Frankish and German rulers. At the same time the Danevirke separated the heathen North from Christian Western Europe. Danish King Harald Bluetooth then established Christianity in his kingdom in ca. 960. This achievement was recorded in the carvings on the large Jelling rune stone. Danish soldiers once more made use of the Danevirke in the war of 1864.

Further information at: www.kuladig.de

 
 

◄ Crooked Rampart

06_Krumwall 003.R

► Kovirke

UNESCO Welterbe Danewerk
 
 
 

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The central part of the fortifications

You are standing in part of the Danevirke’s Main Rampart, where the rampart has been removed. The Main Rampart is the key part and forms the main line of the fortifications in the system of ramparts, which were repeatedly extended and modified. Various construction phases are reflected in the cross-section of the earthwork, such as reinforcement with fieldstones or the brickwork of Valdemar’s Wall. Danish kings also used the Danevirke as a show of power. Only a large and very well organised workforce could construct such a massive monument.

It served as a defence for the Danes against territorial claims by Frankish and German rulers. At the same time the Danevirke separated the heathen North from Christian Western Europe. Danish King Harald Bluetooth then established Christianity in his kingdom in ca. 960. This achievement was recorded in the carvings on the large Jelling rune stone. Danish soldiers once more made use of the Danevirke in the war of 1864.

back to overview sections and places