Turup Kirke (church)

Turup Church – Historic Village Church near Assens

Turup Church is beautifully situated in the open countryside of Funen, approximately 8 kilometres northeast of Assens. This whitewashed village church with its red-tiled roof dates back to the 12th century and is a fascinating place to visit if you are interested in history, architecture and historic Danish churches.

Over the centuries, the church has undergone several alterations, and today you can experience a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Turup Church is also an active parish church that continues to host worship services and religious ceremonies.

A Church with a History Dating Back to the Middle Ages

Turup Church was originally built in the 12th century as a Romanesque stone church with a nave, chancel and semicircular apse. The building materials included granite and fieldstones, which were typical of church construction during that period.

During the Late Middle Ages, the church was remodelled in the Gothic style. The original chancel and apse were removed, and the nave was extended eastwards. A tower and porch were also added, while the original wooden beam ceiling was replaced with vaulted ceilings.

Until 1913, Turup Church was owned by the Brahesborg Estate, after which it was transferred to Turup Parish as an independent church.

Discover the Church's Beautiful Historic Furnishings

Inside Turup Church, you will find several fascinating historical details. Much of the church's interior furnishings date from the Renaissance and reflect the craftsmanship and religious traditions of past centuries.

• The Altarpiece: A beautifully carved oak altarpiece from the early 17th century, featuring a more recent altar painting by artist Maja Lisa Engelhardt.
• The Pulpit: A richly decorated pulpit dating from 1598, featuring carvings of the four Evangelists.
• The Baptismal Font: An unusual wooden baptismal font from 1592, designed in the shape of an inverted crown.
• The Crucifix: A Late Gothic crucifix from the late 15th century, displayed on the church's north wall.
• The Church Bells: Two historic bells, cast in 1622 and 1759 respectively.

A Modern Artistic Touch in a Historic Church

Turup Church underwent extensive interior restoration between 2006 and 2007. During the restoration, the church's historic furnishings were carefully preserved and restored, while the interior was given a brighter and more contemporary appearance.

Artist Maja Lisa Engelhardt contributed a new colour scheme and a new altar painting. The result is a church interior where modern religious art meets centuries of history.

Practical Information about Turup Church

• Address: Gamtoftevej 90, Syrehusene, 5610 Assens, Denmark
• Location: Turup, Assens Municipality, West Funen
• Built: Originally constructed in the 12th century
• Church Type: Romanesque village church with Gothic additions
• Website: Turup Parish

Turup Church is well worth a visit if you would like to explore the cultural heritage of West Funen and discover how medieval architecture and Renaissance craftsmanship have been preserved in a living Danish village church.