KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
One of the world's few museums dedicated to gender history, exploring equality, identity, and social change in a reclaimed Art Nouveau landmark.
KØN is one of the world's few museums dedicated entirely to the cultural history of gender, located in a striking Art Nouveau building in central Aarhus. The museum explores gender roles, equality, sexuality, and the body through permanent exhibitions on women's history—from pioneering feminist Mathilde Fibiger to contemporary movements—alongside rotating thematic displays. A free café serves as a welcoming gathering space, making it an intellectually engaging destination for adults and older teens.
A brief summary to KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
- Domkirkepladsen 5, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4525454510
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesday for extended hours until 8 PM, allowing for a more leisurely exploration without time pressure. Weekday mornings typically have fewer crowds, creating a more reflective atmosphere.
- Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours minimum to engage meaningfully with the exhibitions. The displays are text-heavy and reward careful reading; rushing diminishes the experience.
- Use the free café as a contemplative space to process what you've learned. The vintage porcelain and homemade buns create an intimate setting for reflection.
- If visiting with children, prioritize the Childhood section, which features interactive elements and period clothing to try on. The permanent exhibitions are more suited to older teens and adults.
- Check the events calendar on the museum's website for talks, discussion salons, and workshops that align with your visit, deepening your engagement with gender history topics.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Lockers
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Busgaden, the main bus junction in central Aarhus, located approximately 400 meters south of the museum. Journey times from Aarhus Central Station are typically 5–10 minutes depending on the route. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Single tickets cost approximately 24 DKK; day passes and multi-journey cards offer better value. Check the local transit app for real-time schedules and route options.
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Train and Walk
Aarhus Central Station is approximately 800 meters south of the museum, a pleasant 10–12 minute walk through the city center. Regional trains connect Aarhus to Copenhagen (3.5–4 hours), Odense (1.5 hours), and other Danish cities. Train tickets vary by destination and advance booking; expect 200–600 DKK for regional journeys. The walk from the station to Domkirkepladsen is flat and well-signposted through pedestrian-friendly streets.
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Bicycle
Aarhus is highly bike-friendly with extensive cycle lanes throughout the city. Bike rental is available at several locations near the city center, typically costing 50–100 DKK per day. The museum is accessible via flat, dedicated cycle routes from most neighborhoods. Bike parking is available near the museum entrance.
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Parking and Car
Multiple paid parking facilities are within 100–200 meters of the museum, including Dokk1, Navitas, near Aarhus Cathedral, and Magasin department store. Street parking is limited and subject to local regulations. Disabled parking is available in front of Hotel Royal, directly across from the Cathedral. Parking typically costs 20–40 DKK per hour; rates vary by facility. Arrive early on weekends to secure a space, as the cathedral area attracts visitors.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
A Museum Rooted in Resistance and Reclamation
KØN occupies a building with a complex and powerful history. Constructed in 1857 as Aarhus's city hall, courthouse, and jail, the structure was modernized in the early 1900s with distinctive Art Nouveau decoration—intricate tempera paintings of flowers and patterns still adorn the walls and ceilings. During World War II, the German Gestapo commandeered the building as their headquarters, surrounding it with barbed wire and shutters as they suppressed Danish resistance from 1944 to 1945. After the war, the police reclaimed it until 1983. When the grassroots Women's Museum moved in during 1984, it transformed the space into a sanctuary for feminist discourse and historical documentation. In 2021, the museum was renamed KØN to reflect its expanded focus beyond women's history to gender history as a whole, though the original Danish inscription "Kvindemuseet" (Women's Museum) remains above the entrance as a symbol of its enduring spirit.Exploring Gender Through Time and Culture
The museum's permanent exhibitions guide visitors through the cultural history of gender in Denmark, tracing the evolution of gender roles, sexuality, and equality from the 19th century to the present day. One major exhibition follows the women's movement from Mathilde Fibiger—a pioneering 19th-century Danish feminist—through to contemporary activism including the #metoo movement. The museum examines sex education history, body representation, and the social forces that have shaped gender identity and expression. Rotating thematic exhibitions complement the permanent collections, ensuring fresh perspectives and contemporary relevance. The curatorial approach is deliberately text-rich and layered, inviting visitors to engage deeply with complex social and historical themes rather than offering superficial overviews.Interactive Spaces and Hands-On Learning
The museum recognizes that gender history is not abstract—it is lived experience. A dedicated childhood section includes interactive elements and period clothing for younger visitors to try on, making the exhibition more tangible and engaging for families. The museum hosts dialogue-based educational programs on gender, equality, sexuality, the body, democracy, and citizenship, positioning itself as a platform for debate and reflection rather than a passive repository of objects. Throughout the year, talks, discussion salons, panel debates, and workshops invite the public to participate in conversations about gender's significance in society.The Architectural Setting and Aesthetic
The building itself is a visual statement. Its symmetrical facade features curved gables and gray decorative elements that create a striking striped pattern against red brick, making it distinctive even as it sits modestly behind Aarhus Cathedral. Heavy wooden double doors mark the central entrance. Inside, the Art Nouveau details—painted ceilings, ornamental patterns, and period architectural features—create an atmosphere of historical weight and cultural significance. The museum occupies multiple floors connected by a lift, with light-weight folding chairs available on each level for visitor comfort. This architectural grandeur contrasts intentionally with the intimate, personal nature of gender history, creating a space where monumental public buildings are reclaimed for marginalized narratives.KØN Café: A Free Social Oasis
The museum's café is a beloved gathering space with free entry, allowing visitors to linger without additional cost. Housed within the museum, it serves homemade sourdough buns, coffee, and light meals using vintage antique porcelain, creating a charming and atmospheric retreat. The café functions as both a practical amenity and an extension of the museum's mission—a place where conversations about gender, equality, and social change can continue informally over refreshment.Location and Accessibility
KØN sits in the heart of Aarhus, directly adjacent to Aarhus Cathedral on Domkirkepladsen. The location is highly accessible: it is a five-minute walk from Busgaden, the city's main bus junction, and numerous parking facilities are nearby, including dedicated disabled parking across from Hotel Royal. The museum provides lockers for large bags, and prams or strollers can be parked safely at the entrance. A lift serves the second and third floors, and staff can provide maps to help visitors navigate the exhibitions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agnete og Havmanden
0.8 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
Den Svangre
0.9 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
0.9 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
1.0 km
Folkehuset Trøjborg blends Danish hygge, vibrant community life, and affordable culture, making it a beloved gathering place in the heart of Aarhus’ Trøjborg district.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
1.1 km
Historic mill at the heart of Aarhus's verdant botanical sanctuary, blending heritage with living gardens.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
1.2 km
Step into a vibrant world of exotic plants, interactive exhibits, and striking glass architecture at Aarhus's Greenhouses—a serene escape for nature lovers.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
1.2 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
University Park, Aarhus
1.4 km
Explore seven centuries of art at SMK – Denmark’s national gallery, marrying old masters, modern pioneers, and cutting-edge exhibitions in stunning parkland surroundings.
Botanical Garden
1.5 km
Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.5 km
Experience local Danish cinema culture at Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg—an atmospheric neighborhood movie house blending modern comfort with classic charm in Aarhus.
Trøjborg Beboerhus
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Udsigtspladsen
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking city, harbor, and bay vistas from one of Aarhus C’s most beloved scenic viewpoints, perfect for relaxation and panoramic photography.
Tivoli Friheden
2.5 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Marselisborgmonumentet
3.1 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Flagpladsen
3.1 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Occupation Museum
0.0 km
Aarhus’ former Gestapo headquarters turned museum, where original cells, local stories and moral dilemmas bring Denmark’s wartime occupation chillingly close.
Aarhus Cathedral
0.1 km
Aarhus Cathedral—Denmark’s tallest and longest church, home to medieval frescoes and ornate altarpiece, anchors the city’s vibrant heart with Gothic grace.
Latin Quarter
0.1 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter blends cobbled medieval streets, historic townhouses and bike-friendly lanes with creative cafés, boutiques and boundary-pushing Nordic dining.
Bishop's Square
0.1 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil English-style gardens, and the dramatic changing of the guard—an essential cultural and green escape south of Aarhus city center.
Herman Sallings Plads
0.1 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil gardens, and public art in Aarhus—a unique glimpse into Danish monarchy, all set within lush, accessible parklands.
Store Torv
0.1 km
Historic Great Square where cathedral spires, elegant façades and everyday city life come together in the pedestrianized heart of Aarhus.
Aarhus Theatre
0.1 km
Art Nouveau splendour, golden auditoriums and four busy stages make Aarhus Theatre the historic heart of live performance in Denmark’s second-largest city.
Viking Museum
0.2 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Latinerkvarteret
0.2 km
Aarhus’ oldest quarter: cobbled lanes, medieval houses, indie shops and café terraces creating a compact, bohemian neighborhood just behind the cathedral.
Endless Connection
0.2 km
Interactive spiral fountain on Aarhus’ harbourfront where jets of water, inspired by the city’s starry skies, become a playful urban artwork and gathering spot.
Aarhus waterfront
0.2 km
Aarhus waterfront blends bold Scandinavian architecture, city beaches, harborside culture, and urban relaxation along the picturesque shores of Denmark’s vibrant second city.
Sankt Clements Torv
0.3 km
Compact, historic and constantly in motion, Sankt Clemens Torv is the everyday crossroads between cathedral, Viking past, riverside cafés and modern shopping Aarhus.
Lille Torv
0.3 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Vadestedet
0.3 km
Historic river crossing turned vibrant canal-side strip, Vadestedet blends cafés, bars and bridges into Aarhus’ cosiest, most atmospheric urban meeting place.
History Hunts med Hvem.nu
0.3 km
Hands-on history hunts in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Viking traces and town stories turn into clue-driven adventures for curious families and small groups.
Essential places to dine
Casablanca Aarhus
0.0 km
French‑style brasserie, famous brunch “Crunch” and cosy café‑bar atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Piccolina
0.1 km
Authentic Italian pizzeria with exceptional vegan options and warm family hospitality in central Aarhus.
Teater Bodega
0.1 km
Classic Danish inn in central Aarhus, offering authentic smørrebrød, cosy ambiance, and a historic link to the city’s arts and theatre scene.
Den Rustikke
0.1 km
Discover Den Rustikke in Aarhus - where traditional Danish cuisine meets modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Café Hack
0.1 km
Theatre-side brasserie in central Aarhus, where candlelit dining, classic European flavours and a touch of broadcast history create an intimate urban evening.
Lecoq
0.2 km
French-inspired brasserie and bar bringing Southern European warmth, wine and late-night energy to Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter on Graven.
Plant Food
0.2 km
Small, cosy and completely plant-based, Plant Food serves bold umami burgers, bowls and sandwiches in the heart of Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Aarhus
0.2 km
Classic Danish steakhouse tradition on the Åboulevarden waterfront, pairing expertly grilled beef with polished Scandinavian design and a serious wine and beer list.
Pihlkjær Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience exquisite modern Danish cuisine at Pihlkjær Restaurant in Aarhus – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Sct. Oluf Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant French-inspired bistro offering creative cuisine and Danish hospitality in the artistic heart of Latinerkvarteret, Aarhus’ oldest and most atmospheric quarter.
Mefisto Restaurant & Gårdhave
0.2 km
Aarhus’ beloved seafood restaurant and garden, Mefisto, offers Scandinavian classics, atmospheric courtyard dining, and vibrant local flavor in the city’s oldest quarter.
OliNico
0.2 km
Cozy Aarhus gastro grillbar on Mejlgade, serving generous modern European comfort food, daily changing menus and bistro classics at pleasantly low prices.
Restaurant Domestic
0.2 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine at Restaurant Domestic in Aarhus C - where innovation meets tradition for an unforgettable dining experience.
Carlton
0.2 km
A central Aarhus brasserie-style restaurant and bar where polished plates, a strong wine list and warm lighting create an intimate, grown‑up city evening.
Basso Aarhus
0.2 km
Modern Italian restaurant in Aarhus C serving inventive multi-course social dining with Nordic flair, stylish ambiance, and top-tier ingredients in a lively city-center setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
stoy
0.1 km
Minimalist, design-led fashion hub on Aarhus’ main square, blending luxury labels and independent brands in a calm, curated retail space.
COS
0.2 km
A calm, design-led COS flagship on Aarhus’ historic Store Torv, blending Scandinavian minimalism, quality fabrics and thoughtful silhouettes in the city’s busy heart.
LAKOR Shop Aarhus
0.2 km
Flagship men’s clothing shop in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Danish west coast vibes with graphic, coastal-inspired casual wear in an intimate, design-led space.
Skagen Clothing
0.2 km
Minimalist Danish fashion where sustainable style meets everyday comfort.
LÏST Store
0.2 km
A calm, curated women’s fashion boutique in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian simplicity, quality fabrics and timeless silhouettes on charming Volden.
Utzon
0.2 km
Independent Aarhus boutique where Scandinavian fashion, leather, fur, and design objects are curated into one coherent, softly luxurious universe of style.
Jooma Aarhus
0.2 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
Seramikku - Japandi Concept Store
0.2 km
A serene Japandi concept store in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Japanese ceramics and Scandinavian design into a calm, tactile shopping experience.
BESTSELLER Rømerhus
0.2 km
Flagship BESTSELLER fashion house in a historic Aarhus icon, blending classic architecture, modern Scandinavian design and multi-brand style under one roof.
Loppegal
0.2 km
Curated secondhand fashion and interiors in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Danish design sensibility meets flea-market charm in a cosy, character-filled shop.
& Vintage
0.2 km
A boutique in Aarhus' Latin Quarter offering hand-picked vintage treasures, Scandinavian gifts, artisan wares, and a warm, local shopping experience in a creative setting.
Sophies Tøjhus
0.2 km
A cosy central Aarhus boutique for colourful, Scandinavian‑inspired women’s fashion, perfect for a relaxed browse and a wardrobe refresh between city sights.
Badstue Rock
0.2 km
One of Denmark’s oldest independent record stores, Badstue Rock is a cozy Aarhus hub for vinyl, CDs, music books and unhurried crate-digging in the city center.
Royal Vintage
0.2 km
Hidden down a quiet Aarhus lane, Royal Vintage offers a compact, carefully curated selection of pre-loved fashion for travellers who love slow, sustainable style.
RAASTED
0.2 km
Curated design and fashion boutique with an upscale organic café in central Aarhus.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mig og Ølsnedkeren
0.1 km
Experience the best of Aarhus's craft beer scene at Mig og Ølsnedkeren, where local and international brews await in a cozy atmosphere.
Café Under Masken
0.1 km
Bohemian, art‑lined den in central Aarhus where masks, fish tanks and coffee cups share space with beers, late‑night conversations and an old‑school smoky bar vibe.
Cafe Gyden
0.1 km
Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
ÅBEN Aarhus
0.1 km
Contemporary craft beer, rotating taps and a relaxed neighborhood buzz in a minimalist taproom tucked into Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Ris Ras Filliongongong
0.1 km
Candlelit basement bar on Aarhus’ Mejlgade, blending an extensive beer selection with bohemian, living-room coziness and easygoing late-night conversations.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
The Old Irish Pub
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Old Irish Pub in Aarhus, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.
PV (Pustervig) - Kaffe & Cocktails
0.2 km
Cosy central Aarhus hideaway where daytime coffee culture flows seamlessly into a warm, late-night world of candles, chatter and creative cocktails.
Bar Smil Aarhus
0.2 km
Loud beats, cheap drinks and late-night energy in a compact bar-club right in the centre of Aarhus’ historic heart.
Herr Bartels
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Herr Bartels, a premier cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Tokio Bar
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Tokio Bar in Aarhus, where unforgettable nights await every visitor.
Fatter Eskil ApS
0.2 km
Aarhus's cosy live music bar where emerging bands and established Danish artists share the stage.
Clemens Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.
London
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at its premier cocktail bar, blending innovative drinks with a stylish ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Bitter Bar
0.2 km
Experience the lively ambiance and innovative cocktails at Bitter Bar, a must-visit nightlife gem in Aarhus.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Thought-provoking
- Intellectual
- Contemplative
- Culturally significant
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
