Aarhus Old City Hall

I pass The Old City Hall whenever I cut across Domkirkepladsen after coffee near Graven. The red brick, the pointed arches, the cathedral’s tower peeking over the roof, it always pulls me in for a quick look. 

To stitch the building into Aarhus’s wider story as you walk, use StoryHunt’s immersive audiowalk.

What is the story behind The Old City Hall?

The Old City Hall stands on Domkirkepladsen beside Aarhus Cathedral. Built in 1856 to 1857 in a neo Gothic style, it served as the city’s administrative home until 1941, when the current City Hall opened near Rådhusparken. 

However, it holds a dark chapter; during the Second World War, the German forces set up their Gestapo headquarters inside the old city hall. It was a house of horrors, as many Danish civilians and freedom fighters where imprisoned and tortured in here. 

Afterward, the building hosted civic functions and later housed the city’s gender museum, today known as KØN Gender Museum Denmark.

Where is it and how do you get there?

You will find it on Domkirkepladsen in the historic centre, seconds from Store Torv and Strøget. I usually approach from the cathedral’s north side, then loop toward the river for coffee. 

Walking is easiest, bikes roll through gently, and buses stop on nearby routes along the pedestrian zone. For a story led approach, follow the StoryHunt audiowalk from the cathedral square.

Who designed The Old City Hall and what style is it?

The building is attributed to C. G. F. Thielemann and belongs to Denmark’s 19th century Gothic Revival. Look for red brick walls, pointed arch windows, and stepped gables that nod to medieval forms without copying the cathedral. 

The proportions are modest, which suits the square. I like how the façade catches changing light, especially on crisp mornings.

What can you see inside today?

Public access depends on what is operating in the building, historically exhibitions by KØN Gender Museum Denmark have been hosted here, with additional programming off site. 

Interiors typically feature period touches like staircases and high windows. Check current signage at the entrance for exhibitions and access. If you prefer context in your ear, start the StoryHunt audiowalk outside.

What to look for outside:

• Brick details and tracery around the main portals
• Stepped gables and roofline geometry
• Sightlines to the cathedral tower for classic photos

How long do you need at The Old City Hall?

Plan 15 to 25 minutes for the exterior and square, then add time if an exhibition is open. I often pair a quick architecture stop with a longer visit inside the cathedral. 

If you are following an efficient city loop, the StoryHunt audio walk connects the square to Strøget and ARoS without backtracking, which saves both time and steps.

When is the best time to visit?

Morning brings softer light on the brick and fewer people on the square. Midday is lively, with buskers near Store Torv and plenty of cafés within a minute’s walk. Winter can be atmospheric when the cathedral lights come on early. 

If you want clear photos, I like early or late in the day when shadows define the arches.

Is there an entry fee?

The square is free to access. Any fee depends on current exhibitions or events inside the Old City Hall. Policies can change, so check the posted information or the operating museum’s website before you go. 

If you are building a budget friendly day, combine free exterior viewing here with the cathedral, then decide about tickets once you see what is on.

Practical tips for first timers

Years of quick drop ins taught me a few habits. Keep voices low near services at the cathedral, watch for cyclists cutting through Store Torv, and avoid blocking doors when photographing. 

The square is breezy, so bring a light layer. If you want a richer read of the site, open StoryHunt’s audiowalk and let it map the stories onto what you see.

Handy checklist:

• Circle the building to spot brick patterns and plaques
• Frame the façade with the cathedral tower in the background
• Step into nearby courtyards for quieter angles

Photography tips from the square

I like a slight diagonal from the cathedral side to catch both façades. Overcast days are great for even tones on the brick, while low sun brings out textures. Keep people in the frame to show scale, the building is trim compared with the cathedral. 

Is it worth seeing The Old City Hall?

Yes, especially if you appreciate 19th century civic architecture and how Aarhus knit old and new over time. The building is modest compared with the headline modern City Hall by Arne Jacobsen, so set expectations. 

Value comes from context, cathedral next door, Latin Quarter around the corner, and a square that anchors daily life. Pair it with StoryHunt’s audiowalk for maximum payoff.

What else is nearby The Old City Hall?

You are surrounded by highlights in Aarhus. 

• Aarhus Cathedral is next door for medieval art and frescoes. 
• Strøget begins a few steps away for a pedestrian stroll. 
• Graven in the Latin Quarter offers cafés and design shops. 
• ARoS is a short walk for contemporary art and a rooftop view. 

Let StoryHunt’s immersive audiowalk guide you through this compact cluster.