Aarhus Cathedral
Denmark's longest and tallest church, blending Romanesque strength with Gothic grace and medieval artistry.
Aarhus Cathedral, officially St. Clement's Church, is Denmark's longest and tallest church at 93 meters long and 92 meters high. This architectural masterpiece combines Romanesque foundations with stunning Gothic transformations undertaken between 1449 and 1520. Located at the heart of Aarhus on Store Torv, the cathedral features an exceptional collection of medieval frescoes, a magnificent altarpiece by Bernt Notke, and intricate ribbed vaulting. Built with distinctive red brick—a material revolutionary for Denmark in the 12th century—the cathedral remains an active place of worship and a defining landmark of the city's skyline.
A brief summary to Aarhus Cathedral
- Store Torv, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586205400
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between late morning and early afternoon to avoid peak worship times and large tour groups. Sunday mornings are reserved for services and the cathedral opens only to worshippers.
- Take time to examine the frescoes and maritime motifs throughout the nave and chapels—these medieval wall paintings were hidden for centuries and reveal rich details about the cathedral's seafaring heritage.
- Look upward to appreciate the star and cross vaulting that characterizes the Gothic renovation. The ribbed vaults and pointed arches create a sense of soaring height that defines the interior experience.
- Book a guided tour in English or Danish to learn the detailed stories behind the Bernt Notke altarpiece, the baptismal font, and the cathedral's architectural transformations across eight centuries.
- The cathedral is located steps from Strøget and major shopping areas, making it an ideal pause during city exploration. Admission is free, though tours require a fee.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Aarhus Central Station, take the metro (M1 or M2 line) toward the city center and exit at Skolebakken station, approximately 5 minutes. The cathedral is a 2-minute walk from the station, located directly on Store Torv in the heart of the city center. Metro tickets cost approximately 24 DKK for a single journey within the city zone.
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Walking
If you are in central Aarhus near Strøget or the shopping district, the cathedral is within a 5–10 minute walk. From Magasin department store on Store Torv, the cathedral entrance is immediately adjacent. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly with clear signage.
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Parking
Street parking is available in the surrounding area near Store Torv and Bispetorv, though spaces are limited during peak hours. Several paid parking garages operate nearby, including Magasin's parking facility. Expect to pay approximately 30–50 DKK per hour for street parking.
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Bicycle
Aarhus is highly bicycle-friendly with dedicated cycle lanes throughout the city center. Bike rental services are available at the central station and throughout the city, costing approximately 60–100 DKK per day. Secure bike parking is available near the cathedral.
Aarhus Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Aarhus Cathedral
From Romanesque Foundations to Gothic Splendor
Construction of Aarhus Cathedral began between 1180 and 1200, likely under Bishop Peder Vognsen, on the site of an earlier wooden church dedicated to Saint Clement. The original Romanesque basilica, completed around 1350, was an ambitious undertaking built entirely in red brick—a revolutionary material for Denmark, not widely used before 1160. The outer walls and eastern chapels of this Romanesque structure survive today as testament to medieval ambition. However, the cathedral's true transformation came during the 15th century, when Bishop Jens Iversen Lange initiated a radical Gothic reconstruction between 1449 and 1500. This Gothic renovation fundamentally reshaped the cathedral's character. The nave was elevated dramatically, receiving soaring star vaults while the side aisles were fitted with cross vaults and enlarged windows that flooded the interior with light. The choir was entirely reconstructed and enlarged with three naves of equal height, an ambulatory, and thirteen high pointed windows. A magnificent west tower bearing the bishop's coat of arms rose above the entrance, and the overall effect transformed the heavy Romanesque structure into a luminous hall church inspired by the great Hanseatic churches around the Baltic Sea.Artistic Treasures and Sacred Craftsmanship
The cathedral's interior contains some of Denmark's most significant medieval artistic achievements. The crowning glory is the gilded altarpiece, commissioned from the workshop of the renowned German painter Bernt Notke in Lübeck and installed in 1479. This late Gothic masterpiece depicts the Madonna and Child with Saint Anna, flanked by Saint Clement and John the Baptist, with the twelve apostles arranged in tiers below and the Coronation of Our Lady in Heaven at the apex, attended by the archangels Gabriel and Michael. The altarpiece was meticulously restored between 1975 and 1980, recovering its original brilliance. Equally remarkable are the cathedral's frescoes, among the finest medieval wall paintings in Denmark. Dating primarily from the Gothic renovation period (1470–1530), these frescoes had been hidden beneath whitewash for centuries before being uncovered and conserved in modern times. Maritime motifs appear throughout, reflecting the cathedral's dedication to Saint Clement, patron saint of sailors—a fitting choice for a city with deep seafaring roots. The cathedral also houses a notable baptismal font and pulpit reflecting post-medieval craftsmanship, while a suspended model sailing ship hangs within the nave as a votive offering.Centuries of Transformation and Resilience
The cathedral's journey through subsequent centuries reflects the turbulent history of Denmark itself. After the Reformation, the church's financial resources were severely restricted, limiting maintenance to essential repairs until the mid-1800s. In 1642, the original tower burned and was replaced by a shorter octagonal spire, nicknamed the "coffee pot lid" by locals. In 1702, parts of the eastern chapels were demolished, and in 1743, the exterior was modernized in the Baroque style. An extensive repair in 1775 removed much of the remaining medieval character, though the core Gothic structure remained intact. In 1822, the northern spire on the small round choir towers was blown down and replaced with octagonal onion domes designed by architect N. H. Rieman. The current tower, standing 92 meters tall, was rebuilt in 1931.A Living Monument to Danish Sacred Architecture
Today, Aarhus Cathedral stands as Denmark's longest church, stretching 93 meters and seating approximately 1,200 people. It remains the tallest church in the nation and a defining feature of Aarhus's skyline, dominating the central squares of Store Torv and Bispetorv. The cathedral continues to function as an active parish church, hosting regular services, religious observances, and concerts that echo through its vaulted spaces. Visitors who enter find themselves walking through eight centuries of Danish architectural evolution—from the sturdy red-brick Romanesque walls to the soaring Gothic vaults, from medieval frescoes to Baroque organs. The cathedral's enduring presence speaks to the resilience of both the building and the community it has served, making it far more than a museum piece: it is a living testament to faith, craftsmanship, and the layered history of a great Danish city.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
0.8 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
0.8 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Steno Museum
1.1 km
Explore the Steno Museum in Aarhus, where science and history come alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.4 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
2.4 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
3.0 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Unmissable attractions to see
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
0.1 km
One of the world's few museums exploring gender, equality, and sexuality through history and contemporary dialogue.
The Occupation Museum
0.1 km
Aarhus’ former Gestapo headquarters turned museum, where original cells, local stories and moral dilemmas bring Denmark’s wartime occupation chillingly close.
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.
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.
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.
Viking Museum
0.1 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Latin Quarter
0.2 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter blends cobbled medieval streets, historic townhouses and bike-friendly lanes with creative cafés, boutiques and boundary-pushing Nordic dining.
Herman Sallings Plads
0.2 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.
Sankt Clements Torv
0.2 km
Compact, historic and constantly in motion, Sankt Clemens Torv is the everyday crossroads between cathedral, Viking past, riverside cafés and modern shopping Aarhus.
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.
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.
Vadestedet
0.2 km
Historic river crossing turned vibrant canal-side strip, Vadestedet blends cafés, bars and bridges into Aarhus’ cosiest, most atmospheric urban meeting place.
Lille Torv
0.2 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
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.
Mural - The Seagull Kiss
0.3 km
An iconic Hans Krull mural on a Fiskergade gable, "The Seagull Kiss" fuses fantasy, seafaring spirit and bohemian Aarhus into one unforgettable street-side scene.
Essential places to dine
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.
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.
Piccolina
0.1 km
Authentic Italian pizzeria with exceptional vegan options and warm family hospitality in central Aarhus.
Casablanca Aarhus
0.1 km
French‑style brasserie, famous brunch “Crunch” and cosy café‑bar atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Aarhus
0.1 km
Classic Danish steakhouse tradition on the Åboulevarden waterfront, pairing expertly grilled beef with polished Scandinavian design and a serious wine and beer list.
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.
Den Rustikke
0.2 km
Discover Den Rustikke in Aarhus - where traditional Danish cuisine meets modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
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.
Grappa Aps
0.2 km
Modern Italian kitchen and wine bar on Aarhus’ lively riverfront, serving pizzas, pasta and antipasti from brunch to late evening in a warm, social setting.
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.
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.
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.
KöD Aarhus
0.2 km
Riverfront steakhouse in central Aarhus, serving premium cuts, generous sides and bold wines in a warm, low-lit setting made for slow, sociable dinners.
Restaurant Pinden
0.2 km
Hearty Danish classics and old-inn charm in a chandelier-lit dining room on lively Skolegade in the very heart of Aarhus.
Madklubben Århus
0.2 km
Lively, design-conscious dining in Aarhus’ historic Toldkammeret, where seasonal classics, fair prices and a buzzing waterfront setting anchor an easygoing night out.
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
0.1 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.
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.
Skagen Clothing
0.2 km
Minimalist Danish fashion where sustainable style meets everyday comfort.
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.
Plakaten
0.2 km
Long‑standing Aarhus poster boutique on Sankt Clemens Torv, blending curated art prints with expert framing services in the heart of the city’s main shopping street.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Paustian Lille Torv
0.2 km
A light-filled Scandinavian design universe on historic Lille Torv, where Danish furniture icons, contemporary interiors, and curated lifestyle pieces meet under one stylish roof.
Jooma Aarhus
0.2 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
RAASTED
0.2 km
Curated design and fashion boutique with an upscale organic café in central Aarhus.
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.
Mads Nørgaard
0.2 km
A Scandinavian multibrand fashion hub in Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter, blending Mads Nørgaard classics with curated contemporary labels for men and women.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Gyden
0.1 km
Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
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.
The Old Irish Pub
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Old Irish Pub in Aarhus, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.
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.
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.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
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.
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.
Tokio Bar
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Tokio Bar in Aarhus, where unforgettable nights await every visitor.
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.
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.
Clemens Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.
Fatter Eskil ApS
0.2 km
Aarhus's cosy live music bar where emerging bands and established Danish artists share the stage.
LouLou Aarhus
0.2 km
Glam cocktail bar and 23+ nightclub on Aarhus’ riverside strip, where playful décor, crafted drinks and a pulsing dance floor keep weekends going till dawn.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bernhardt Natklub
0.1 km
Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
GBAR
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at GBAR in Aarhus, a welcoming dance club where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable night out.
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
0.2 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
Lounge 8000
0.3 km
Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.
DCD STUDIO
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant rock music scene at DCD STUDIO in Aarhus, where electrifying performances and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste
0.4 km
Unleash your nightlife experience at Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste, Aarhus' top destination for dancing, cocktails, and unforgettable memories.
Flintstone Pub
0.6 km
Flintstone Pub in Aarhus blends retro décor, affordable drinks, and live music, offering a lively gathering place for locals and visitors in the city’s central quarter.
equalclub
0.6 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
