St. Catherine’s Abbey lies in the heart of medieval city. It is one of the best-preserved abbeys in Denmark. It dates from the thirteenth century, when it was founded by the Dominican order of monks. St. Catherine’s Church was built to serve it. The abbey was once one of several in the town, which was vitally imporatant in Viking and medieval times, but was the only one allowed to remain intact, as a hospital, after the Reformation. The beautiful gardens are exceptionally well-maintained and attract many visitors.