Arhus History, Denmark

Arhus is the chief port of Denmark and the second biggest city of the country. The beginning of Arhus History is believed to have started before 770 AD making the city to the oldest in Scandinavia. From there, the city began to expand and progress in trade and commerce.

Arhus History - Early History and Viking Era

Archaeological excavations have proven that the city of Arhus was already inhabited by the end of the 7th century. Archaeologists also unearthed half-buried Long houses which were used by Vikings as homes and places for workshops. Add to this, they were able to find jewelry, combs, and major multi-purpose instruments inside the houses. These archaeological finds established that the settlement was from 900 AD. Starting from the year 850 AD, Arhus, based on documents, built a center of trade which became the base for the city’s construction.

During the year 900, the once pagan burial site of Arhus was demolished and the very first church in the city was built. This is known as the Holy Trinity Church constructed during the time of Frode, the King of Jutland. By the year 1000, Arhus had become the resident of the noble and wealthy. Because of this, Arhus became a significant European city.

Arhus History – 17th and 18th Century

The 17th century wars caused significant suffering to the city of Arhus. The German Imperial Campaigns between 1627 and 1629 left reminders of the hostilities that took place. Sweden invaded Arhus in 1644 which led to the city’s occupation by the Swedish troops from 1657 to 1659.

Add to the wars, the city also suffered misfortunes like city-wide fires and plagues. However, in spite of the calamities, Arhus remained an essential city in Denmark. The city continued as a chief trading city due to its constructive geographical location. The city continued trading with countries such as France, England, Spain and Norway. The city’s trade fleet rose to around 100 ships during the middle of the 1700s.

Arhus History – 19th Century

Arhus acquired more sovereignty because of the Copenhagen’s and Hamburg’s ascendancy during the 19th century. The city also became the third biggest city in Jutland and its population grew exceeding Randers in 1840 and Alborg in 1850. During this year, Arhus became the biggest city in Jutland and the second biggest in the whole country.

The city continued to expand and prosper in terms of trade and commerce. Its wealth also increased and the city’s harbor and railway network were further developed. Ethnically, Arhus promoted itself as the “Jutland Capital”. Add to this, the city widened its cultural foundations such as the Arhus Theater, universities, hospitals and the national library.

Arhus History depicts how the city progressed. Now, it is indeed a significant place in the whole of Denmark. If you want to learn more facts about Europe, take time to read Odense Travel Guide and Aalborg History.

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