Aarhus, the second largest city in Denmark, is friendly, relaxed and full of tourist attractions that help it carve out a place for itself despite presence of more glamorous Copenhagen. Museums, educational institutions, restaurants, shopping hubs – all are there. But what attracts travellers most is, its fine balance of history and modernity. Very few destinations on the earth have such an eclectic combination. Enjoying a stunning location on the east coasts of Jutland, where river Aarhus falls into spectacular Aarhus Bay, the city has a history that dates back to 928AD. During medieval times the city served as a major commercial, seafaring and fishing hub of the region. Later, the city emerged as a hub of agriculture and trade. Evidences of its impressive past can still be found in its well preserved renaissance buildings. Recent few centuries gave travellers more reasons to fly to Denmark due to its emergence as a major cultural hub. Here we give a lowdown on top draw cards in Aarhus.
The Old Town
A visit to the Old Town, which is an open air museum, would be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. The museums complex houses more than 75 buildings form across Denmark, removed and reassembled here. This collection is present here in its original form and in order to impart it authenticity old shops and houses have also been opened here. The museum complex has several things that include toy museum, textile museum, and several historical and musical collections.
ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum
One of the most impressive museums in the country, the ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum looks impressive with its ten-story building. The museum that was opened in 2004 is still being spruced up and new feature are being added to it. The museum has a large collection of artworks related to the Danish Golden Age (1770 to 1900) and Danish Modernism (1900 to the 1960s). Artefacts related to contemporary art can also be seen here. There are some restaurants and cafes in the vicinity where one can have a great snacking experience.
The New Moesgård Museum
Situated on the outskirts of Aarhus, new Moesgård Museum offers a detail of country’s history from the Stone Age to Viking times. Grauballe Man (Grauballemann), a well preserved corpse that dates back to more than 2000 year old is one of the major draw cards. Collections from the prehistoric times are also there to provide travellers some great experiences.
Aarhus City Hall
City Hall (Rådhus) which is one of the great pieces of architecture was built by noted architects by architects Arne Jacobsen and Erik Moller in 1941. The building looks impressive with its Norwegian marble facade and 60-meter-high tower that offers commanding view of the city. The interior of the city hall consists of the Civic Hall, the Council Chamber, and the Marriage Room which are beautifully adorned. Pig Fountain, which is situated in proximity, should also be part of your itinerary.
Aarhus Cathedral
Situated in the heart of the city Aarhus Cathedral (Sankt Clemens Kirke) is dedicated to St. Clement. Its original structure dates back to 12th century but its current structure dates back to early days of 16th century. Winged altar that dates back to 1497 is one of the prime draw cards the cathedral has on offer. The visitors should also see the vault paintings in which St. Clement was shown as the patron saint and Christ sitting in judgment.
Viking Museum
Viking Museum (Vikingemuseet) is also a place of interest, as it has a vast collection of things collected by builders while excavating the bank's foundations in the 1960s. The collection gives a reflection on the life of Viking community resided here some thousand years ago. Ancient ramparts, reconstruction of houses from the Viking period and ancient tools are major draw cards for the visitors.
The Church of Our Lady
One of the largest churches in Denmark, the Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke) is a tourist favourite for its Gothic building, ornate frescoes and a magnificent altarpiece that dates back to early 18th century. In 1955, an older church was excavated that could be visited during your visit to the Church of Our Lady.
Marselisborg Palace and Park
The palace that was built as a gift from the Danish citizens now serves as the summer residence of Danish royalty. Change of Guard ceremony that takes place during the days, during which royals reside here, is worth watching. The palace is not open for the public while they can visit the adjoining park. A memorial park that laid out in the Danes, who sacrificed their lives in WWI, is also worth visiting.
Aarhus Botanical Garden
If you want to know about the plant life of the region, then visiting Aarhus Botanical Garden (Botanisk Have) is a must visit. Established in 1875, the museum covers 53 acres of land replete with various exogenous and indigenous plants. Large hothouses with subtropical plants are major draw for the garden. The garden also conducts several summer programs for kids that make it popular with family vacationers.
Kvindemuseet: The Women's Museum
Kvindemuseet, which is also referred as the Women's Museum, is devoted to collect and preserve knowledge and information about country’s women and their socio-cultural standing. The guests will come across several historical and topical themes that educate them about status of women in the country. There are several works of art that educate people about changing attitude of society towards women.