Memorial Park: History, cherry trees and large green areas
The Memorial Park is one of Aarhus' largest parks with monuments, a cherry grove, a rose and rhododendron garden, and views of Marselisborg Castle and Aarhus Bay.
A park with history and space for everyone
The Memorial Park covers 27 hectares and is one of Aarhus' most visited parks. It offers space for picnics, walks, games and large events such as the DHL Relay, while the park's many gardens and monuments tell the history of the area through more than 100 years.
Images
The monument
Practical
Behind the Memorial Park
The memorial park was created after the decision to build Marselisborg Castle in the early 1900s. The park was to ensure the view from the castle towards Aarhus Bay, but at the same time became a green area where everyone could move around.
Today, the park is used year-round by both Aarhus residents and visitors. The large lawns, old trees and many paths make it an ideal place for both a short walk and a whole afternoon outdoors.
Rømerhaven and the Mirror Basin
Behind a dense hedge close to the park's entrance lies Rømerhaven, which was laid out in 1930. The garden consists of several smaller garden spaces with various plants, paths and seating areas.
In the middle of the garden is the Reflection Pool with the sculpture Danaide, which has been one of the garden's most characteristic elements since 1970.
The sun horse and the view over the lawn
In Rømerhaven stands the sculpture Solhesten, inspired by Norse mythology. From here there is a view of the Memorial Park's large lawns, flower beds and the long axes that characterize the park's design.
It is one of the places where the size of the park really comes into its own.
The Monument to the Fallen
In the middle of the Memorial Park lies the Monument to the 4.140 Danish South Jutland soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The monument was inaugurated in 1934 and is built as a circular memorial square with the names engraved in the walls.
Every year on November 11, a memorial service is held at the monument.
The Donbæk houses and the fresh apple trees
The whitewashed, thatched Donbækhuse were originally built as housing for employees at Marselisborg Castle. Today, the houses are used by the park's gardeners, but they are still part of the historical environment of the Memorial Park. The name comes from the small Donbæk, which runs through the area, and in the fall you can often see the apple trees in front of the houses overflowing with fruit.
Rhododendron Garden
Behind the Donbækhusene lies the Rhododendron Garden, which blooms every year in May and June. For some weeks the garden is in shades of purple, pink, white and red, and it is one of the most colorful places in the Memorial Park. From the highest point of the garden there is also a view back towards the Monument and the large grassy areas.
Kersebærlunden and Lindenhøjen
For many, spring is the highlight of the year in Mindeparken. The approximately 50 Japanese cherry trees bloom in April and May, transforming Kirsebærlunden into one of the most photographed places in Aarhus.
The trees were donated by Japan in 1988 and are today a regular spring tradition for many Aarhusians.
Practical information about the Memorial Park
Parking
There is free parking on Kongevejen at the park's main entrance.
Public transport
Buses 17 and 19 stop at Carl Nielsens Vej, while bus 6A stops at Oddervej. From here it is a few minutes' walk to Mindeparken.
Location
Find out Google Maps
Toilets
Public restrooms are located at the ice rink near the park entrance.
Playground
The memorial park has a large playground with a barbecue area and outdoor fitness.
Kiosk
At the park's main entrance there is a kiosk, which is open seasonally.
See pictures from the Memorial Park
See pictures from the Memorial Park and experience the large lawns, the Rømerhaven, the Monument, the Donbækhusene, the Rhododendron Garden and the Cherry Orchard through the different seasons of the year.
Discover more parks in Aarhus
Aarhus has parks, each with their own unique character. Some are known for their historical surroundings, others for their lakes, flowers, playgrounds or large grassy areas. Here you will find our guides to the city's parks with inspiration for walks, picnics, nature experiences and excursions all year round.