Den Gamle By (Old Town Museum) | Aarhus

Den Gamle By (The Old Town Museum) in Aarhus, Denmark, is a world-renowned open-air museum that offers a unique journey through Danish history and culture. It features meticulously reconstructed historical buildings and settings, showcasing life in Denmark from the 18th century to the 20th century. This immersive museum is one of Aarhus’s most popular attractions, providing visitors with a vivid, hands-on experience of Danish heritage.

Overview

• Name: Den Gamle By (The Old Town Museum)
• Location: Viborgvej 2, Aarhus, Denmark
• Established: 1909
• Type: Open-air museum
• Focus: Danish urban life across centuries, including architecture, daily life, and social history.
• Recognition: First open-air museum in the world dedicated to urban history.

History of Den Gamle By

Founding:

• Den Gamle By was established in 1909 by Peter Holm, who sought to preserve Denmark's architectural and urban history. The museum initially consisted of a single building relocated from the town of Aarhus.

Expansion:

• Over time, the museum expanded to include over 75 historical buildings, creating a small, fully functional town that mirrors Danish urban life from the 1700s to the 1970s.
• The buildings were carefully dismantled at their original sites and reassembled at the museum. Each structure has been restored to reflect its specific historical period.

Global Recognition:

• Den Gamle By has inspired similar open-air museums worldwide and remains a leader in historical preservation and interpretation.

Museum Highlights

Den Gamle By is divided into three main sections, each representing a distinct time period in Danish urban history:

18th Century District:

• Features cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and bustling town squares typical of the 1700s.
• Includes notable landmarks such as merchants’ houses, craft workshops, and inns.
• Visitors can explore the blacksmith's forge, bakeries, and apothecaries, learning about the trades and lifestyles of the period.

19th Century Market Town:

• This section replicates a typical Danish town from the 19th century, showcasing both urban prosperity and rural simplicity.
• Key features include:
  • The Mayor’s House: A grand example of 19th-century architecture and interior design.
  • The Toy Museum: Displays historical toys and games from various periods.
  • Working Shops: Such as a watchmaker's shop, a tailor's shop, and a grocery store.
• Live demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving, provide a dynamic look at Danish heritage.

20th Century District:

• Focuses on the 1920s, 1950s, and 1970s, illustrating the rapid changes in Danish urban life and culture during the modern era.
• 1920s: Highlights include a jazz bar, a tobacconist, and elegant townhouses.
• 1950s: Features post-war life with shops, homes, and even a replica of a 1950s radio and television store.
• 1970s: Showcases a more recent history, complete with retro clothing shops, apartments, and political posters reflecting the social movements of the time.

Unique Experiences

Living History:

• Staff dressed in period costumes interact with visitors as townspeople, craftsmen, or merchants, adding an authentic and interactive element to the experience.
• Seasonal activities, such as harvest festivals, Christmas markets, and traditional Easter celebrations, bring historical traditions to life.

Historical Gardens:

• Several gardens in Den Gamle By are designed according to historical practices, including a medieval herb garden, a 19th-century flower garden, and a 20th-century allotment garden.

Food and Dining:

• Visitors can enjoy traditional Danish cuisine in period-style taverns and cafés. Authentic recipes and cooking methods are used to prepare meals reminiscent of the era.

Interactive Exhibits:

• Try your hand at traditional crafts like candle-making, bookbinding, or even participating in a vintage school lesson.

Visitor Facilities

Shops:

• Several historical shops, such as a candy maker and baker, sell handmade goods prepared using traditional methods.

Dining Options:

• Simon's Tavern and other eateries offer a chance to savor Danish meals in historical surroundings.

Guided Tours:

• Guided tours provide in-depth insights into Danish history and architecture. Group and private tours are available, often tailored to specific interests.

Accessibility:

• The museum is wheelchair-friendly in most areas, although cobblestone streets may pose some challenges.

Museum Shop:

• A modern shop offers a range of unique gifts, books, and replicas inspired by the historical exhibits.

Practical Information

Opening Hours:

• The museum is open year-round, but hours vary by season. Special events may extend hours during holidays.

Admission Fees:

• Entrance fees apply, with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Family tickets are also available.

Getting There:

• Location: Located near Aarhus city center, Den Gamle By is easily accessible by public transport, car, or bicycle.
• Parking: Parking facilities are available nearby.

Events and Special Programs

Seasonal Events:

• Christmas in Den Gamle By: A highlight of the year, showcasing festive traditions, decorations, and markets from various periods.
• Harvest Festivals: Celebrating agricultural traditions with live demonstrations and activities.

Educational Programs:

• The museum offers school programs and workshops to educate students about Danish history and culture in an engaging way.

Evening Tours:

• Special after-dark tours provide a unique perspective on the museum’s historical ambiance.

Nearby Attractions

Den Gamle By is close to several other Aarhus landmarks, making it an ideal stop in a city tour. Nearby attractions include:

• ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
• Aarhus Botanical Gardens
• Aarhus Cathedral

Conclusion

Den Gamle By is more than just a museum; it’s a journey through time that immerses visitors in the sights, sounds, and stories of Denmark’s past. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of the 18th century, experiencing 1950s nostalgia, or enjoying hands-on activities, Den Gamle By offers something for everyone. A visit to this open-air museum is a memorable way to connect with Danish history and culture.