| Aarhus (Aarhus) is the second largest town in Denmark, Aaarhus County, and the cultural center of Jutland. The town proper has 213 826 inhabitants, but there are over 250 000 combined with those in the outskirts. Established by the Vikings more than a millennium ago, the town didn't mark much political, economic or cultural progress until 1900. Around that time its production facilities began to draw people from the surrounding villages. Its population doubled in 1935 and has enjoyed a stable increase ever since.
Aarhus is a university town, with Aarhus University (the only place in town where the original name is preserved) being the main institution, but it offers a wide variety of landmarks, attractions, entertainment locales and sights as well. Dominated by young citizens due to its many schools, drawing students from the greater area, its vibrant, exciting atmosphere is easily felt.
A compact city, it offers all the advantages of Denmark's international reputation and the familiar setting of a home away from home. Several hours are sufficient for a general look, but tourists wishing to get to know the city intimately can spend weeks visiting attractions, cultural sites, excellent restaurants, and generally entertaining themselves.
Aarhus' setting boasts golden beaches and lush woods. Interesting museums are spread all over the area, mainly in the historic district. The more notable ones are the Museum of Prehistory, the Old Town museum, the Vikingemuseet and the progressive Women's Museum. Fascinating authentic collections of ancient relics are on display at the Forhistorisk Museum Moesgard, among which the 2000-year-old Graubelle Man found in a marsh close by 53 years ago. The remarkable Old Town includes 75 buildings dating back to the 17th century. Fully renovated, they represent all regions of Denmark. The Art Museum features a series of Danish art works. The town hall is something you shouldn't miss - its elegant, innovative design impresses to this day. It dates back to 1942.
You are welcome to visit the Tivoli amusement park of Aarhus. Perfect for families, there are fun rides and shows for the children and beautiful gardens and relaxing cafes for the adults. After the park you can eat at any one of the many restaurants in the area, which serve traditional and international dishes.
Music lovers will definitely find that Aarhus has a lot of offer in this regard. Live music is almost a tradition of the city. You can listen to groups at the small clubs dotting the city or, if you prefer, visit the Concert Hall and listen to all kinds of music including jazz, classical and pop. The Hall is a cultural landmark, housing the Jutland Opera Company and the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra. The biggest theatre in the Hall hosts 1 500 people. The largest theatre in the city is aarhus Theatre.
The cultural event of the highest importance is the Aarhus Festival, held once a year. Its organization is among the most complex in Northern Europe. It features several hundred performances of a wide variety, including opera, classical music, rock music, art and theatre.
Aarhus enjoys a strategic location. Its 24-hour airport Tirstrup offers regular flights to a number of popular destinations like Copenhagen, Stockholm, London and Oslo. The city is also located at a major railroad intersection in the country and well linked to all main European highways. All European and Danish cities are within easy reach.
Denmark is very convenient for cycling, as the land is relatively flat and the paths are safe. Town authorities are very considerate of cyclists, and new routes are often added to the city's territory.
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