In the middle of Aarhus lies ARoS – one of Northern Europe's largest and most prominent art museums. With its iconic rainbow on the roof, 你的彩虹全景 Since Olafur Eliasson, ARoS has become a landmark of the city and one of the most visited attractions in Denmark. The museum is known for its architecture, its groundbreaking exhibitions, and its ability to turn art into an experience that appeals to the senses, emotions, and intellect.

A museum with roots and visions

ARoS has roots back to 1859, but it received its current name and iconic building in 2004 when the new museum opened its doors. The architecture in itself is an experience – a cubic building of 10 floors, where four of the floors are underground. The building is designed by the architectural firm Schmidt Hammer Lassen and is an example of modern Scandinavian architecture that combines light, space, and functionality.

The name ARoS is a reference to the city's old name, Aros, which means "the mouth of the river." It connects the museum to Aarhus's history while also establishing the museum as a modern and international art institution.

你的彩虹全景

The most striking feature of ARoS is undoubtedly the rainbow on the roof – 你的彩虹全景The circular artwork was created by the world-famous artist Olafur Eliasson and opened in 2011. The installation consists of a 150-meter-long glass corridor system in all the colors of the rainbow.

From the rainbow, you can see the entire Aarhus in a new light – literally. The city appears in red, green, blue, or yellow, depending on where you stand. It offers a truly unique view, and for many visitors, the walk around the rainbow is the highlight of the visit.

Art Collection

ARoS houses an extensive collection of art from 1770 to the present day. The collection ranges from the paintings of the Golden Age and symbolism to modern contemporary art. The museum houses both Danish and international works, and visitors can experience everything from classical paintings and sculptures to installations, video, and photographic art.

The collection is organized to take you on a journey through art history. On the different floors, one moves from the older periods up to the present day, where contemporary art unfolds in many different forms.

Changing exhibitions

One of ARoS's main strengths is its changing special exhibitions, which attract visitors from all over the world. The museum often features major international names but also makes room for new talents and experimental art.

Over the years, ARoS has hosted exhibitions with artists such as Bill Viola, Ron Mueck, Grayson Perry, Joana Vasconcelos, and many others. The exhibitions are known for being spectacular, captivating, and for challenging the audience in new ways.

Boy by Ron Mueck

One of the most iconic works in ARoS's permanent collection is Boy A five-meter-high hyperrealistic sculpture of a boy, created by Australian Ron Mueck. The sculpture depicts a boy in a vulnerable yet powerful pose. The level of detail is impressive, and the artwork has made a great impression on both children and adults since it became part of the museum's collection in 2001.

Boy It has become a symbol for ARoS, almost as iconic as the rainbow on the roof.

Art experiences for the whole family

Although ARoS is an art museum, it is far from a place where people only walk quietly and look at pictures. The museum is designed to appeal to all ages.

There are special activities and workshops for children where they can express their creativity. There are also often exhibitions created with children's perspectives in mind. For adults, there is ample opportunity for immersion in the art and its stories. The museum manages to combine knowledge and experience in a way that makes it interesting for the whole family.

Architecture and experience

The building itself is a work of art. The large spiral staircase in the center connects the floors and guides visitors upward towards the light and the rainbow. Underground, you find darker and more atmospheric spaces where installations and light art are often allowed to unfold.

This architectural journey from darkness to light is an important part of ARoS's identity. It symbolizes the human journey through life – from the earthly to the spiritual.

Café and shop

A visit to ARoS is not just art. The museum's café and restaurant offer high-quality food and drinks, often inspired by seasonal ingredients. There is also a well-stocked museum shop where you can buy art books, design items, posters, and souvenirs.

Location in the heart of Aarhus

ARoS is centrally located in Aarhus, just a few minutes' walk from the town hall, the Music House, and the city's pedestrian streets. The location makes it easy to combine a visit to the museum with shopping, a café visit, or a trip to the city's parks.

Many choose to experience ARoS as part of a longer cultural day in Aarhus, where you can also visit Den Gamle By or Moesgaard Museum.

Events and arrangements

ARoS offers ongoing events such as artist talks, guided tours, workshops, and lectures. The museum also hosts cultural events that attract both local and international visitors. There are special offers for school classes and groups that make the visit both educational and entertaining.

ARoS of the Future – The Next Level

ARoS is in the process of a major expansion called The Next LevelThis addition will give the museum even more space for modern art and installations. The project includes, among other things, a spectacular underground art hall designed by James Turrell – an American artist known for his light installations.

With the expansion, ARoS cements its position as one of Europe's most visionary art museums.

Why visit ARoS?

There are many reasons why ARoS is a world-class attraction:

• Unique architecture or iconic artworks such as 你的彩虹全景 og Boy.

• Large art collection from the 1700s to today

• International special exhibitions of high quality

• Activities for the whole family, that makes art lively and fun.

• In the center of Aarhus, close to other attractions and the city's life.

Tips for the visit

• Take plenty of time – there is a lot to see, and the rainbow alone deserves peace and reflection.

• Visit the café or restaurant so you can enjoy a break with a view of Aarhus.

• Remember the camera – especially in the rainbow, there are fantastic photo opportunities.

• Check the museum's calendar for current special exhibitions and events.