Haderslev Cathedral
The Cathedral rises high above the roofs of the city and stands as a unique element in the city's skyline.
500 years reformation in Haderslev
Photo: Flying October
The city of Haderslev has its very own Reformation history. It is not without reason that Haderslev is also called the "Wittenberg of the North." Now, 500 years have passed since the Reformation came to the city—and that calls for a celebration!
On the occasion of the 500th anniversary, Haderslev will host a series of events and celebrations in 2026. The main attraction of the jubilee year will be an impressive flower exhibition by multidisciplinary artist Johnny Haugaard, where art, faith, and history come together. The exhibition is based on the symbolism of the Luther Rose, which unfolds in colors, shapes, and stories, and can be experienced from September 12 to October 31, 2026.
In addition, there will be concerts, lectures, and, of course, the Duke Hans Festival. A colorful anniversary program will be announced in the coming months. Join in and celebrate 500 years of the Reformation in the cathedral city of Haderslev!
Keep an eye on the program here.
Photo: Falco Pixabay
Photo: Haderslev Kjøbstads Vægterlaug
A bit more about the history
In 1517, Luther posted his 95 Theses on the church door in Wittenberg, which is Haderslev’s twin city. Early influenced by Luther’s teachings, Duke Christian (1503–1559) introduced the Reformation here from 1526, together with the pastors Johann Wenth and Eberhard Weidensee from Wittenberg. He took away the bishop’s fees, had the clergy teach the Reformation doctrines, and issued the Haderslev Articles in 1528 – an evangelical church order.
After the death of Frederick I in 1533, Christian won the Count’s Feud and became King Christian III. He introduced the Reformation throughout Denmark and Norway and brought Johannes Bugenhagen from Wittenberg to develop a nationwide church order.
What Christian first tried out in Haderslev became a model for the Reformation in the rest of the country in 1536 – 10 years after Haderslev.
