Gjenden

Gjenden is a Danish crumbling stone castle ruins. It was built into an existing dolerite rock promontory in a small fjord, situated in the parish of Gjellede in Aarhus county, Denmark. The name 'Gjenden' originates from the Old Norse words 'gjel' and 'endur', meaning 'gorge' and 'end' respectively.

Historical records show that Gjenden has its roots in medieval times, around the 12th century, although the exact date of its construction is not specified. The site's design mixes Viking Age architectural features with later Gothic influences. In its original state, the castle would have been surrounded by water on three sides, situated as it is on a small promontory.

The remains include a tower cell, chapel and a long rectangular hall, characteristic of late Danish medieval buildings. Today the process of erosion and cliff recession has advanced, somewhat threatening the integrity of the remaining structures. Attempts to stabilize the structures in place have been made, a testament to the initial preservation and potential long-term protection of Gjenden's threatened ruined remains.

Archeological and historical records prove that Gjenden's significance extends beyond mere structural appearance, and into the area's earlier habitation by early peoples, and into its role as a vestige to Medieval Denmark's rural watchtowers.