Munke Mose i Odense Centrum

Munke Mose in Odense - An Oasis in the Heart of Odense

At 8.5 hectares (85,000 square metres), Munke Mose is one of Odense's most extensive parks. The unique combination of trees, lakes, islands and streams gives the area a diversity of natural scenes and opportunities for exciting experiences. The manicured lawns form a contrast to the more untouched forest and swamp areas, which almost feel like small pieces of wilderness, created by the proximity to Odense River. Munke Mose is adorned by an impressive collection of trees, including pedunculate and sessile oak, hornbeam, red and blood beech, ash, yew, magnolia and horse chestnut. These majestic trees contribute to the park's lush atmosphere and add character and beauty to the landscape.

Munke Mose playground - the city's most popular playground

The playground in Munke Mose is incredibly popular with both children and their families. Inspired by H.C. Andersen's timeless fairy tale ‘Thumbelina’, the playground is designed with small nature motifs made large and inviting for play. Visitors will be delighted to find enlarged versions of familiar elements such as birds, fish, lily pads, bridal candles and butterflies, creating a magical and fairytale-like atmosphere.

The story of Munke Mose

Munke Mose, named after Munkenes Mølle, has its origins in St Canute's Monastery, established after the killing of Canute the Holy in 1086. Canute's brother, Erik Ejegod, summoned twelve Benedictine monks from England to care for St Canute's tomb in Odense Cathedral. The monks, skilled in milling, built a mill in 1135 by the river below the monastery. This water mill, known as Munke Mølle, gained considerable economic influence, especially after King Valdemar the Great's decree of 1175, which required citizens to grind their grain at the monks' mill to secure the city's supply of flour. The mill, which later gave its name to the neighbouring area, Munke Mose, was located on an islet along Munkemøllestræde, where the swimming pool now stands. To provide a fall for the mill, a dam was built along the current Munke Mose Allé. The lake in Munke Mose, by Jagtvej, is a remnant of the mill dam.

Sacred Temple Tree in Munke Mose

In Munke Mose you'll also find a beautiful specimen of the Temple Tree (Gingko biloba) on the large lawn opposite Åfarten. This tree is recognisable by its fan-shaped leaves and has an impressive history behind it. The Gingko tree is one of the oldest species on earth, with a history stretching back more than 200 million years. It was traditionally planted at temples in China, Japan and Korea and considered a sacred tree. According to an ancient legend, monks ate the fruit produced by the tree to reduce their need to go to the toilet during long ceremonies. While this story is intriguing, its accuracy has not been confirmed.

Ride a Water bike on Odense River

From Munke Mose you'll also find the iconic and popular red Water bikes.

If you're looking for a romantic outing with a picnic, a fun day out with friends, a stag party or simply want to enjoy a quiet ride alone on the river, then Water bike hire is a great option. It's a cosy and relaxing way to spend an hour or even several hours on a hot summer day.

The Water bikes are rented by the hour and there is room for 4 people on board.

Take a tour on the river Odense Å

Odense Aafart's tour boats also depart from Munke Mose. Since 1882, they have sailed the beautiful trip along Odense River.
Odense has earned its reputation as Denmark's greenest city for one main reason - Odense River. This scenic river is an enchanting green oasis that winds through the city and offers unforgettable nature experiences, especially when you take a trip on Odense River Aafart's tour boats.