Autumn holiday at Æbelholt Abbey - Discover medieval life and medicine

An important medieval abbey

Set in the North Zealand countryside are the remains of Æbelholt Abbey. Founded by Abbot William in 1176, the abbey developed into an important religious centre where people came seeking help and healing.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins and gain an insight into the monastic life that once unfolded here.

Skeletons reveal stories of medieval life

The small museum houses more than 100 skeletons of people who lived during the Middle Ages. These archaeological finds provide insights into illnesses, treatments and the medical practices of the period.

The skeletons offer a fascinating glimpse into people’s lives and health and demonstrate what archaeological research can reveal about life and death in medieval times.

Explore the abbey garden

Outside, visitors can enjoy the colours of autumn among the atmospheric abbey ruins and in the small abbey garden. A variety of medicinal herbs and other plants grow here, reflecting the history of the abbey and the medieval use of plants.

Take home plants from the abbey garden

Museum volunteers cultivate plants in the abbey garden, inspired by monastic gardening traditions. Visitors can buy some of these plants to take home, bringing a little piece of the abbey garden with them.

History and nature for the whole family

Situated in the North Zealand countryside west of Hillerød, Æbelholt Abbey brings together history, archaeology and nature. Children and adults can explore the ruins, abbey garden and the museum’s stories about the people of the Middle Ages.