Agri - an idyllic village in Djursland
Agri is an idyllic village in Mols Bjerge National Park in southern Djursland, surrounded by a pair of Denmark's highest lakes approximately 100 metres above sea level. This peaceful village is a perfect starting point for experiencing the unique landscape of Mols Bjerge, a hilly landscape where you can also enjoy the beautiful views of the sea.
One of the lakes is Agri Sø, where a study by Geoscience at Aarhus University has revealed that it was formed around 1000 years ago by a landslide where clay from the surrounding hills created the lake bed. The study also showed that agriculture in the area began around 1420 and that from the late Middle Ages, hemp and flax were roasted by the lake.
Molbo stories from Agri
Agri has been home to local traditions and quirky tales over the years, including the famous Molbo stories. One of the most famous is about how the villagers tried to farm herring in the lake, but when they only caught one eel, they thought it had eaten the herring and punished it by drowning it again!
In the centre of the village is the charming Agri Church, along with the associated cemetery and vicarage, which is still inhabited. This creates a harmonious and beautiful overall picture that is well worth experiencing.
Molbo stories - part of Danish culture
Molbo stories, in danish Molbohistorier, are humorous tales about the ‘Molbo’ from Mols, who are portrayed as naive and somewhat simple-minded people. The stories are often a satire on human stupidity, where the Molbo people come up with absurd solutions to simple problems. Although caricatured, Molbo stories are an important part of Danish popular culture and have entertained generations with their comical and quirky logic.
Practical information
- Place: Agri By, Mols Bjerge
- Sights: Agri Lake, Agri Church, Cemetery and Vicarage
- Historical background: Landslides, agriculture since 1420, Mols stories