We arrived in Ribe in early July, 2002 while we were on our way to the Nord Cap. Located adjacent to the site of a market that took place in the 700’s the town grew to become an important medieval North Sea port and Denmark’s gateway to Western Europe. This all ceased in the 17th century when the river filed with sand. There are approximately 9,000 people living in the town today.

In the center of town Ribe Cathedral stands (above right), along with a few stone and half timbered houses, as the only remnants from the Middle Ages. At left is a quiet side street with several of the old brick and half-timbered houses. There are many 17th century houses which dominate the town today - mostly because there were no large fires over the years and lack of financing as the town lost its economic importance due to changes in trade routes and the river becoming not navigable.

There are approximately 110 buildings preserved as part of the national heritage. Starting in 1963 the town council made the old town area subject to preservation orders. The town is subject to flooding with the highest water being recorded in 1634 when it reached 6 meters (18+ feet) above the normal water level. Today, dikes have been reinforced and the peril of flooding has been lessened.

Near the center of town, there are now many shops, restaurants and cafes to meet the tourist demands. At right is a view of one of the main shopping streets, looking toward the cathedral. Ribe is a quaint little town well worth a visit. Walking around to view the town will take an hour or so, plus you can visit the Viking Center and Viking Museum. While strolling though town we came across this door which had to be custom-made to fit the now skewed door frame.

The river Ribe runs through the town and provides boating access to the city, as seen below. And this picture really highlights what the surrounding area is like - flat! Lots and lots of farms, of all types. As we traveled through the countryside we passed too many fields to count of corn and wheat. Farmers were out cutting their alfalfa and there was also a few pig farms as well.

The area is very picturesque and it was a beautiful day for a ride.

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