Aalborg, Denmark Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Aalborg_2010_-_125_ubt.JPG Author: Tomasz Sienicki
Aalborg is the capital of North Jutland. It is located in northern Himmerland, on the south bank of the Limfjord. As with many of the major towns in Denmark, it was founded by Vikings in the 10th century. The city today covers 139 sq km. With a population of 125,000 (2011 estimate), Aalborg is the third largest city in Denmark.
Archaeological excavation carried out in Aalborg provided a glimpse to its early history. In its earliest incarnation, there was not a permanent settlement here but rather a market place where traders come form the surrounding areas. One of the ancient names of the town was Alabu. By the 10th century it had become a permanent settlement, and in 1432, it received its municipal charter.
Aalborg established trade links with the Hanseatic League. It built its economy around the herring industry, which saw its golden age in the 17th century. That was when many of Aalborg's finest buildings were erected. When the herring industry declined in the 19th century, so too the city's economy. Its position as the second largest city in Denmark was surpassed in the 1850s by Aarhus, and the two remains the second and third largest city in the country today.
Nytorv Square, Aalborg Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Aalborg_NyTorv_2004_ubt.jpeg Author: Tomasz Sienicki
Today Aalborg has a diverse economy. One of the biggest companies here is Akvavit, the maker of Danish schnapps. It is also a university town, with the founding of Aalborg University in 1970.
Visiting Aalborg
Aalborg Airport (AAL), located 6.5 km in neighboring Nørresundby, is the gateway to Aalborg by air. It is the third largest airport in Denmark receiving flights from Oslo, Copenhagen, London Gatwick, and Malaga, among others.
You can also take the train to Aalborg from Copenhagen. The journey takes about 5 hours. Train services are also available with Roskilde, Odense and Aarhus. If going to Aalborg by road, take the E45 Expressway.
Aalborghus Slot The castle that does not look like a castle. It was built by Christian III in 1555 and was used by the king as his office.
Budolfi Domkirke The Aalborg Cathedral, built in around 1400 in the Gothic style, has an understated interior that is elegant and spacious.
Helligåndsklostret Cloister of the Older of the Holy Ghost is a 15th century convent that is today the best preserved historical building from its period in Scandinavia.
Historiske Museum The local history museum, located to the west of Aalborg Cathedral, houses a varied collection of local artifacts and archaeological discoveries.
Jens Bangs Stenhus Home of 17th century merchant Jens Bang, this 5-storey mansion was built in the Dutch Renaissance style in 1624.
Jørgen Olufsens House Well preserve house belonging to 17th century merchant Jørgen Olufsens built in 1616.
Nordjyllands Kunstmuseum The North Jutland Art Museum has a vast collection of artwork bu Danish and European artists.
Rådhuset The Aalborg City Hall was built in the Baroque style and painted yellow. Completed in 1762, it occupies the spot of an earlier Gothic-style town hall.
Vor Frue Kirke The local Church of Our Lady dates back to the 16th century.
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