Holy Anders' Cross

Category: Landscapes & Rural Life

Sometime back in the 11th century a Danish priest (Father Anders or Holy Anders) went on a pilgrimage to Palestine to pay tribute to his beloved God. After having spend some time in Jerusalem and Jaffa, he started to prepare himself for the long journey back home, but was lucky enough to be offered a free lift by a kind angel. When he woke up the next morning, he found himself sitting on top of this little hill and upon hearing the familiar sound of church bells tolling from a nearby town, he knew he had already arrived at home.

When the local people heard this incredible story, they thought a true miracle had taken place and decided to raise this wooden cross, or rather crucifix, to commemorate that special event. And the crucifix is still standing there, as you can see, although looking a bit worn-out after all these years. Later in his clerical career, Father Anders was said to also have performed another miracle. One day when he was riding his horse, he accidentally dropped his one glove, and where it fell, a pure water source erupted. It became known as the Holy Anders' Well and still exists till this day. Father Anders died in 1205, but was however never promoted a Saint, since the Pope thought the stories sounded a bit far out. Anyway, at least he has become a legend in my little hometown.