Dalum Monastery, nestled in the picturesque landscape near Odense, is a pivotal recreational area that, with the transformation, has, for the first time, become accessible and open to everyone. The monastery and its park have been transformed into an open landscape space that links the monastery building with new housing on the adjacent site and creates a public green space for locals and visitors.
Preserving its historical and social role
Along Dalumvej, the road that passes the monastery, outward-facing public functions bring life to the area and give the monastery an inviting expression. With historical reference to the monastery's healing role, a health centre is one of the public functions. Similarly, the church will be transformed into a community centre, open to all.
The unique and hilly landscape and vegetation will be preserved and activated. In the two natural clearings in the forest Fredsskoven, which previously housed animal pens, climate-friendly housing has been created, integrating into the landscape and preserving the area's character. The Monastery Park facilitates recreational activities and is connected to the city's other trail systems.
In addition to being a historical site, Dalum Monastery and its surrounding landscape will become a dynamic focal point and a natural part of the local community, serving as a central link where everyone can enjoy nature and the new qualities of the monastery.
With respect for history, Dalum Monastery has been preserved with a focus on adding new life and a new framework for activities that strengthen the area's cultural-historical and urban strategy. Simultaneously, the transformation promotes communities and storytelling for the area. In this way, Dalum Monastery has undergone a transformation that serves both history and the needs of today; it is the heart of a vibrant and inclusive local community.