Aarhus, also commonly known by its contemporary Danish spelling Århus, is the second largest city and the principal port of Denmark situated on the peninsula of Jutland on the northern shore of Germany. The town is relatively old, the bishopric dates back at least from 951 and archaelogical findings date back some 1300 years to viking times although the city itself is presumably older than that. The favorable central position within Denmark affording it trade from Germany, the Baltic countries, the greater peninsula of Jutland and the communities on the many smaller islands in its vicinity meant that trade always had a great significance to the town; a significance which is still true today.
While visiting you can take a look at the breathtaking Aarhus Theatre. The
Aarhus Theatre boasts five stages and a total of 1,200 seats. The listed
building just opposite the Cathedral was designed by the architect Hack Kampmann,
and was inaugurated in 1900. The architectiral ornamentation is the word of the
sculptor Karl Hansen-Reistrup. The Theatre has an all-embracing repertoire
during the season from early September until mid-June, including some 15 of its
own productions and also a few guest performances. The drama school, which is
affiliated to the theatre, stages a number of its own plays.
Also for you art lovers, visit Aros an amazing art museum that just recently
opened its doors. Aros has ten levels to show it's own extensive
collection by such masters as: Bill Viola, Tony Oursler, Carsten Holler, Miwa
yanagi and James Turrell. The special exhibition section "9 Spaces" in the
basement holds international light, video, and installation art. Aros also has
two special exhibition galleries at is disposal. Come and enjoy the
beautiful and intriguing artwork Aros offers.
If you are visiting Aarhus in September you will not want to miss the Aarhus
Festival. The whole city participates in this festival with outdoor
theatre, dance, music, children's events, exhibitions and much more.
Take a fancy to the Viking's era, visit July 29 and 30 and witness the Moesgard
Viking Moot. This yearly tradition turns the city into a marketplace of
the yore where the townspeople come to see the Viking ships back from
their summer tours. Goods are traded, Viking ship sailings are demonstrated
along with the use of weaponry and horse-riding.