Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke)

The Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) stands at Sankt Annæ Gade 29 in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark. The baroque church was completed in 1696, and its spire, added in 1752 to a design by Lauritz de Thurah, has become one of the best-known landmarks of the city skyline. The spire rises about 90 metres and is wrapped by an external spiral staircase of 400 steps that visitors can climb to a viewing point at the top. The final stretch narrows to a tight, open-air section in which the staircase winds around the golden globe and a figure of Christ stands above, and the ascent is a memorable experience for those comfortable with heights. From the top the view takes in the rooftops of Christianshavn, the harbour and canals, Christiansborg, and the island of Amager across the water. The interior of the church is also worth a look, with a large baroque altar, an organ with carved elephants supporting it, and a black and gold pulpit; visitors can enter the nave separately from the tower. A visit usually lasts about forty-five minutes, combining the church interior and the tower climb. The tower is closed in icy or windy weather, and the steps become narrow and slippery when wet, so sturdy shoes and a calm approach are important. On sunny days queues for the staircase can form, so arriving shortly after opening is helpful. Only a limited number of people are allowed on the stairs at the same time, which can add waiting. Late afternoon offers pleasant light for photographs of the spire from the canalside, and the surrounding streets with their narrow lanes, cafes and former warehouses are good for a walk. Christiania and Nyhavn are both within reach on foot.