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Posted in: Odsherred Bike Rental Blog

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The Stone on Esterhøj

The Stone on Esterhøj.

The Troll and the Key: A Historical and Mythical Tale

Esterhøj, located in Odsherred, is a place of both historical and mythical significance. The hill, which rises 85 meters above sea level, offers a fantastic view of Lammefjord and Sejerø Bay. However, it is not just its geographical location that makes it remarkable. At the summit of Esterhøj stands a striking memorial stone, commemorating the reunification of Southern Jutland with Denmark in 1920. But before we delve into this history, we must travel back to a time filled with trolls, treasures, and magical keys.

The Troll and the Disappearing Key

An old legend tells of a troll who once lived on Esterhøj. The troll was a mighty creature, guarding a vast treasure hidden deep within the hill. According to the tales, this treasure could become accessible to people if they managed to find and retrieve the key that led to the troll’s treasure. However, the key was cleverly hidden under a stone somewhere near Klint, and the troll had established a special rule: the key could only be taken in absolute silence.

The troll, however, was greatly disturbed by the constant ringing of church bells from the nearby churches in Asnæs and Vig. The booming sound annoyed him so much that he eventually decided to leave Esterhøj forever. Before leaving, he hid the key to the treasure under the stone at Klint, convinced that it would be impossible for anyone to retrieve it without breaking the silence rule.

As is often the case in such stories, the curiosity and adventurous spirit of some locals were too strong to resist. A group of young men found the stone and attempted to lift it to retrieve the key. They actually succeeded in lifting the stone, and the treasure seemed finally within reach. Unfortunately, their plan was foiled by a young girl who, in her excitement, exclaimed, "There it is!" Instantly, the key disappeared, along with any chance of opening the troll's treasure chamber. The treasure remained untouched, and the tale of the troll and the key became part of local mythology, living on to this day.

The Stone on Esterhøj and the Reunification

While legends of trolls and hidden treasures shaped the mythical landscape of Esterhøj, the hill also played a central role in more recent Danish history. In 1920, when parts of Southern Jutland were reunited with Denmark after 56 years of German rule, local enthusiasts decided to celebrate this historic event in a special way. They chose a massive stone from nearby Klint as a symbol of this reunification. The stone, weighing about 25 tons, was to be transported to the summit of Esterhøj—a monumental task.

The transportation of the stone was no easy feat. Over 500 men, all members of local sports clubs, participated in the effort, which took a total of 14 days. With the help of 22 horses, the stone was hauled on a block wagon through the forest and up the steep Høve Stræde. It was an exhausting journey, as the hill rises 85 meters, but through their collective efforts, they finally reached their goal. The stone was placed at the summit of Esterhøj, where it stands today as a symbol of national pride and unity.

Inscriptions were engraved on the stone to commemorate the reunification of Southern Jutland with Denmark in 1920. Today, this stone stands as a prominent monument to a time when Denmark, after many years of loss and separation, was reunited. It was an event that shaped the entire country, and the stone on Esterhøj serves as a physical symbol of the national joy and hope that the reunification brought.

The Connection Between History and Legend

Esterhøj is a place where myth and reality intertwine. While the memorial stone at the summit symbolizes a concrete historical event—the reunification—the place is also home to the story of the troll and his hidden treasure, a legend that has fascinated generations of locals.

This duality between the mythical and the historical makes Esterhøj a special place. It reminds us that places often have multiple layers of meaning, and even the most tangible monuments can exist side by side with the most fantastical stories.

A Timeless Destination

Today, Esterhøj is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. In addition to its rich history and fascinating legends, the site also offers beautiful natural surroundings and an impressive view. Standing at the summit, one can almost feel the pulse of history and hear the echoes of the old tales, which are still alive in the collective memory of the region.

Whether visiting Esterhøj to delve into the history of the reunification or being captivated by the tale of the troll’s treasure, it is a place that sparks curiosity and invites reflection. The treasures of Esterhøj may remain untouched, but the value of the place—both historically and culturally—is immeasurable.