Coat of Arms: Vejle Amt
The coat of arms of the former Danish Vejle County, as shown in the image, features a shield divided into two main sections. The upper section is yellow (or gold), and the lower section is red, forming a distinctive “V” or inverted arch shape that separates the two colors. At the center of the upper yellow section sits a red cross with flared, fleur-de-lis-like ends, resembling a cross patonce or cross fleury, a design often associated with heraldry and religious symbolism. Below, in the red section, two golden axes are crossed, their blades pointing outward and their handles intersecting at the center, creating a symmetrical and dynamic composition. The shield is outlined with a thin border, and the overall design is set against a black background, enhancing its visual clarity and contrast.
Historical and Symbolic Significance
The coat of arms, adopted in 1959, is a powerful representation of Vejle County’s historical and cultural heritage, deeply rooted in the region’s Viking Age legacy and its connection to early Danish royalty and Christianity. The design draws directly from the two royal burial mounds in Jelling, a site of immense historical importance located within what was Vejle County. These mounds are associated with King Gorm the Old and his son, King Harald Bluetooth, two pivotal figures in Danish history. The crossed golden axes symbolize these two kings, who were buried in Jelling, reflecting their warrior status, leadership, and the martial heritage of the Viking era. The axes also evoke the craftsmanship and tools of the time, tying the design to the region’s ancient past.
The red cross in the upper yellow section is a clear reference to Harald Bluetooth, who is credited with introducing Christianity to Denmark in the 10th century. This cross, with its ornate, flared ends, not only signifies the Christianization of Denmark but also connects to the famous Jelling Stone, a runestone erected by Harald Bluetooth that bears a similar cross and inscriptions commemorating his father, Gorm, and his efforts to Christianize the nation. The cross’s placement in the golden field symbolizes the light of faith and the royal prestige of the Jelling dynasty, while the red color may evoke the blood and sacrifice associated with the spread of Christianity.
The “V”-shaped division of the shield, formed by the red and yellow sections, is thought to represent the seal of the old Tørril shire, an earlier administrative division in the region. This design element ties the coat of arms to Vejle’s medieval and pre-modern administrative history, linking it to the broader historical narrative of the area.
Historical Context of Vejle County
Vejle County existed as an administrative unit in Denmark until the municipal reform of 1970, when it was merged into South Jutland County (Sønderjyllands Amt) and later became part of the Region of Southern Denmark. The county encompassed the central part of Jutland, including the city of Vejle and the historic Jelling area, known for its Viking heritage and the Jelling Stones, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jelling, in particular, is a cornerstone of Danish history, marking the transition from paganism to Christianity and the unification of Denmark under Harald Bluetooth’s rule.
The coat of arms, therefore, not only represents the administrative identity of Vejle County during its existence but also serves as a tribute to the region’s Viking and early medieval heritage. It encapsulates the dual legacy of martial prowess (symbolized by the axes and the kings of Jelling) and the introduction of Christianity (symbolized by the cross), making it a multifaceted emblem of Vejle’s historical significance.
Additional Expansion
The Jelling burial mounds and the Jelling Stones are among the most important archaeological sites in Scandinavia, offering insights into the Viking Age and the early Danish monarchy. Gorm the Old, often considered the first historical king of Denmark, and his son Harald Bluetooth, who expanded Danish territory and solidified Christian rule, are central to this narrative. The axes in the coat of arms might also allude to the weapons used by Viking warriors, reflecting the region’s martial culture, while the cross underscores the profound religious transformation that occurred under Harald’s reign.
The colors of the coat of arms—red, yellow, and gold—are typical in heraldry, with red symbolizing bravery and strength, and gold or yellow representing generosity, elevation of the mind, and royal dignity. Together, they create a visually striking and symbolically rich design that resonates with Vejle’s historical identity. After the dissolution of Vejle County in 1970, the legacy of this coat of arms continued to symbolize the region’s pride in its Viking heritage and Christian roots, remaining a potent emblem within the modern Region of Southern Denmark.
Vejle Amt
Vejle Amt, a former administrative county in southeastern Jutland until 2007, has emerged as a cornerstone of modern Denmark over the past 20-30 years. Now largely integrated into Vejle Municipality and adjacent areas, it blends urban vitality, industrial prowess, and natural beauty. From Vejle’s fjordside elegance to the dynamic towns of Fredericia and Kolding, and the inland hubs of Billund and its airport, this region thrives at a critical north-south and east-west crossroads, powered by a top-tier transport network.
Vejle and the Fjord
Vejle, the historical core of Vejle Amt, is a city of about 60,000 that has shifted from a textile and milling past to a modern standout, thanks to its stunning spot at the head of Vejle Fjord. Framed by steep, forested hills and the fjord’s deep waters, its setting is a natural spectacle—an amphitheater inspiring bold designs like the wave-shaped Bølgen residential complex. Once an industrial town, Vejle now drives a service and tech economy, hosting companies like Siemens amid its scenic allure.
Bredballe Neighborhood
Northeast of Vejle’s center, Bredballe offers an upscale residential enclave perched on wooded slopes. Elegant homes command sweeping fjord views, blending quiet streets with proximity to nature and downtown amenities. This classy neighborhood attracts professionals and families, showcasing Vejle’s knack for pairing sophistication with accessibility.
Fredericia and Lillebælt
South of Vejle, Fredericia anchors one leg of the Trekantområdet (Triangle Region) near the Lillebælt strait, the waterway linking Jutland to Funen. Founded in 1650 as a fortress town, its preserved ramparts hint at its military past, while its 40,000 residents now thrive on port activities and industry, including Denmark’s largest oil refinery. The Little Belt Bridge, an engineering marvel, ties Fredericia to the broader Danish network, making it a gritty yet vital hub along this strategic waterway.
Kolding and Kolding Fjord
East of Vejle, Kolding marks another Trekantområdet cornerstone, set at the southern end of Kolding Fjord. With around 60,000 residents, it balances a rich history—epitomized by the medieval Koldinghus castle—with a modern role as a design and education hub, home to Design School Kolding and LEGO’s administrative offices. The fjord, narrower and more sheltered than Vejle’s, adds a serene backdrop, its waters supporting trade and recreation while enhancing Kolding’s appeal.
Billund Town
Inland, Billund defines the western edge of the former Vejle Amt as a small town with global clout. With just 6,500 residents, it’s the birthplace of LEGO, where the company’s headquarters and original factory remain. The opening of LEGOLAND in 1968 turned Billund into a family tourism magnet, drawing over 1.5 million visitors yearly and infusing its quiet streets with a playful, proud energy.
Billund Airport
Just outside Billund, the airport stands as a separate powerhouse. Starting as a modest airstrip in 1964 for LEGO founder Ole Kirk Christiansen, it’s now Denmark’s second-busiest, serving over 3.5 million passengers annually by 2025. With direct flights to European hubs and a key cargo role—especially for LEGO exports—it’s a critical gateway, amplifying the region’s inland reach.
Transport and Infrastructure Crossroads
Vejle Amt’s ascent rests on its transport backbone. The E45 motorway runs north-south through Vejle, linking Scandinavia to Germany, while the E20 cuts east-west, connecting Jutland to Funen and Zealand via the Lillebælt bridges. Vejle’s modern railway station ties it to Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Esbjerg, with lines south to Hamburg. Billund Airport adds air access, and Fredericia and Kolding’s ports handle freight. This upgraded network of roads, rails, bridges, and runways drives commerce, tourism, and growth, cementing the area’s crossroads status.
Endelave (island)
Endelave, a small island in the Kattegat, lies about 10 kilometers off the eastern Jutland coast, and historically part of Vejle Amt. Being close to the mouth of Horsens fjord it has traditionally been aligned with the Horsens area. Covering 13 square kilometers, it supports a population of around 150 and is known for its serene beaches, heathlands, and abundant wild rabbits. Evidence of Viking-era settlement, including burial mounds, underscores its historical depth, while its quiet harbor has long supported local fishing traditions. Today, Endelave’s natural beauty complements the coastal narrative of Jutland, making it a fitting addition.
Top 3 Points of Interest in the Vejle Amt
- Vejle Fjord and Bølgen
The fjord’s dramatic hills and waters, paired with the sleek, award-winning Bølgen building, blend nature and design—ideal for a scenic walk or boat trip. - LEGOLAND Billund
This iconic park, with its LEGO-crafted Miniland and thrilling rides, draws families globally, reflecting Billund’s outsized legacy. - Koldinghus Castle
Kolding’s 13th-century fortress-turned-museum merges restored ruins with modern exhibits, its fjord views making it a historical gem.