banegårde

Banegårde is a term used in Danish to describe a type of rural settlement that was common in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term translates to "cemetery village" and refers to small, often isolated communities that were established near cemeteries. These settlements were typically founded by the families of deceased individuals, who would move to the area to be closer to their loved ones' final resting place. Banegårde often had a strong sense of community, as the residents would share the responsibility of maintaining the cemetery and caring for the deceased.

The establishment of a banegårde was often a spontaneous decision, made by the surviving family members of the deceased. The new settlement would grow organically, with additional families moving in to be close to the cemetery. Over time, banegårde could become quite large, with hundreds of residents. However, they were often characterized by a lack of infrastructure, with residents relying on each other for basic needs.

Banegårde were common in rural Denmark, particularly in the western and northern regions of the country. They were often located in areas with poor soil or other factors that made agriculture difficult. As a result, the residents of banegårde often had to find alternative ways to make a living, such as through fishing, hunting, or other subsistence activities.

Today, banegårde are a rare sight in Denmark. Many have been abandoned or merged with larger communities, while others have been preserved as historical sites. Despite their decline, banegårde remain an important part of Denmark's rural history and cultural heritage.