Aarhus History: An Overview of the Second Largest City in Denmark
Aarhus, the second-largest city in Denmark, has a long and fascinating history. Located on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula, Aarhus has seen many changes over the centuries, from its founding as a Viking settlement to its present-day status as a vibrant, modern city. Here, we take a look at Aarhus’s history and how it has shaped the city into what it is today.
The area of Aarhus has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age, with evidence of a settlement found in the area dating back to the 7th century. The first written record of Aarhus dates back to 1060, when it was referred to as Aros. The city was founded by the Vikings in the late 10th century, and it quickly became an important trading center.
In the 12th century, Aarhus was granted a charter by the King of Denmark, which allowed the city to become a market town. This allowed the city to grow, and by the 14th century it had become an important port city. During this period, Aarhus was also home to a number of monasteries, which helped to shape the city’s culture and architecture.
In the 16th century, Aarhus was one of the first cities in Denmark to embrace the Reformation. This led to a period of economic growth for the city, as it was able to take advantage of the new trade opportunities that opened up. During this period, the city also saw a number of new buildings constructed, including the famous Aarhus Cathedral.
In the 18th century, Aarhus was hit hard by the Napoleonic Wars, and the city’s population declined significantly. However, the city was able to recover in the 19th century, and by the early 20th century, it had become an important industrial center. During this period, the city also saw a number of new developments, including the University of Aarhus, which was founded in 1928.
Today, Aarhus is a vibrant and modern city, with a population of over 300,000. The city is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, which is one of the largest art museums in Scandinavia. The city is also home to a number of festivals, including the Aarhus International Jazz Festival and the Aarhus Street Food Festival. Aarhus is also home to a number of universities, including Aarhus University, one of the oldest and largest universities in Denmark.
Aarhus is a city with a long and fascinating history, and it has been shaped by a number of different influences over the centuries. From its founding as a Viking settlement to its present-day status as a modern and vibrant city, Aarhus has much to offer visitors and residents alike.