Experience art and culture
Embark on a journey through history, art, and culture. From the dramatic stories of the Skanderborg Bunkers and the medieval mystique of Øm Kloster to the unique artworks in Sculpture Town Galten and the modern creations at Gallery Art Expo. Whether you're into Viking tales, monastery ruins, or sculpture parks, this is where past and present merge. Søhøjlandet has something for every culture enthusiast – what are you waiting for?
Cultural Treasures: An Activity Map for the Culture Enthusiast
Discover the cultural treasures—from historical sites to inspiring art. This activity map is for those who want to experience everything the cities in the area have to offer.
The Complete Cultural History
Museum Skanderborg is your gateway to the area’s fascinating history. With several museum departments and archives, you’ll gain insight into Skanderborg’s rich cultural heritage.
Skanderborg Bunkers
History Underground
Visit the bunkers in Dyrehaven and step into two command bunkers from World War II. Experience the dramatic impact of the war through exhibitions and stories that bring the past to life.
Øm Monastery Museum
A Historic Monastic Landscape in the Heart of Nature
Explore Øm Monastery, founded by the Cistercian order in 1172, now a museum located by the beautiful Mossø Lake. Wander through the atmospheric ruins park and see the foundations of the medieval monastery, five medieval graves, and the monastery garden.
The Viking from Fregerslev
Step into the World of the Vikings
Travel back to the Viking Age with the Viking from Fregerslev, one of the more recent major finds. Visit the historical and memorial park, where you can experience history in the very place it happened.
For Art Lovers
Sculpture City Galten
Art in the Open Air
Sculpture City Galten is a cultural oasis where 32 unique works adorn the town’s streets and alleys. Here, you can explore sculptural treasures from both local and international artists—ranging from chess pieces to quirky pigs. The route is ideal for an inspiring walk or bike ride, where art and surroundings blend seamlessly.
Gallery Art Expo
Modern Art in Scenic Surroundings
Gallery Art Expo offers a world of modern art and creativity, located by the beautiful Stilling Lake. With 72 permanent Danish artists and nine different exhibition rooms, you can embark on an artistic journey where various styles of art set the scene.
Tip: Bring the family and a picnic basket and enjoy a day in beautiful surroundings, both indoors and out.
Checklist for the Culture Enthusiast
When you’re looking to immerse yourself in cultural experiences, you’ll find plenty of exciting—and historical—adventures in Søhøjlandet:
- Gain unique insight into monastic life from the well-preserved written chronicles at Øm Monastery Museum.
- Explore the many sculptures in Sculpture City Galten, with 32 permanent works resulting from the town’s sculpture exhibitions.
- Visit Gallery Art Expo by the beautiful Stilling Lake. Gallery owner Sarah Høi invites you in to view paintings, ceramics, and sculptures from more than 72 artists.
- At Pakhuset Ry, encounter internationally recognized art from Tanja Eijgendaal and Anne Risom in their shared workshop gallery.
- Step back in time to experience Allied flyovers and air raid situations in the Skanderborg Bunkers.
- Enjoy a walk among sculptures by, among others, Jørn Rønnau in the sculpture park at Skanderborg Gymnasium on Højvangens Torv.
- Visit Gnisten, the music venue in the old power station in Ry, featuring great musical acts and an intimate atmosphere.