Vejen-Jels

Selected experiences on the stage

The Freedom Bridge over the Kongeå River
To cross the Kongeå River from Københoved to Askov, you must traverse the Freedom Bridge, a concrete bridge from 1924.

On the Freedom Bridge, you can witness history living on through the distinctive red-and-white railing colors, symbolizing the sense of Danishness in the area from 1864 to 1920. It was at Foldingbro and Skodborg Hus that the official border crossings were located.

The Freedom Bridge originated from the nearby cobblestone house, Friheden, built in 1870 by H.D. Kloppenborg. He was one of the leading figures in the struggle of the Southern Jutlanders to maintain their affiliation with Denmark. With the house came the need for a bridge, as the original ford was located further to the west and did not pass by the house.

The Freedom Bridge actually consists of three bridges: The northernmost bridge spans the Kongeå River itself. In the middle, there is a bridge over a spring, where the water flow heads east, opposite the direction of the Kongeå River. The southernmost bridge crosses an irrigation canal, which contributed to increased harvest yields and better survival prospects for the local community.

Frihedsvej 6B, 6630 Rødding

Skodborghus, a place of remembrance
In the middle of the Kongeå Valley, on a low hill, once stood Skodborghus, which was one of the royal border fortresses between Denmark and the Duchy of Schleswig. Today, you can embark on a journey to the past as you explore the remnants of Skodborghus.

Although the exact year of construction for Skodborghus is unknown, it is known that the fortress was in royal possession during the medieval period. During the Middle Ages, Skodborghus stood proudly as an important border stronghold, guarding the nation's frontiers. In the 16th century, the castle was used as a hunting lodge and customs point for cattle trade. Around 1700, the castle's role had diminished, and over time it fell into decay, and in 1862 it was finally demolished.

In 2018, a series of archaeological investigations were conducted around the site believed to be the location of Skodborghus. Timber was found that could be dated back to the year 1392.

Today, you can still discern the contours of the fortress mound and traces of the canal that once brought water to the moat. In 1932, it was decided to erect a memorial stone over Skodborghus. The memorial stone is made of old monk bricks, granite blocks, and a granite window casing from the original Skodborghus. Although the Kongeå River is now merely a historical boundary, the memorial stone will remind you of the many important roles the site has played over time.

Skodborghusvej 15, 6600 Vejen

Jels Mill
As you approach Jels from Vejen, you'll see Jels Mill, an impressive Dutch gallery mill built in 1859. Over the years, the mill has ground grain for feed, flour, and cereals, and it has been an iconic sight on the hilltop in the town. With its distinctive onion-shaped mill cap and a wingspan of 21 meters, the whitewashed mill has harnessed the power of the wind, been visible in the landscape, and provided the miller with a great view

The 12-sided wooden terrace surrounding the mill is called the Gallery, where the miller would set the sails on the wings. Inside the mill, you will find that the original atmosphere has been preserved with intact grinders, hoisting gear, and grain chutes. The beautiful onion-shaped mill cap is covered with black shingles, which were renovated in 2009. In 1959, the mill was protected as a heritage site, and in 2014, this protection was renewed. Today, Jels Mill is one of the few protected mills in Denmark.

Although the mill is not open daily, you might be lucky to see the mill society exercising the mill's wings once a week.

Settle down on the benches, and take the time to enjoy the protected mill and the historical ambiance at the top of Jels.

Jels Mill Street 5, 6630 Rødding