Den Gamle By receives the European Museum of the Year Award 2026

Denmark’s Den Gamle By in Aarhus has been awarded the prestigious European Museum of the Year Award (EMYA) 2026, recognising its outstanding contribution to cultural heritage, public engagement and social relevance.

Presented at the award ceremony in Bilbao, Spain, the distinction highlights Den Gamle By’s innovative approach to connecting history with contemporary challenges.

The EMYA jury described the museum as “a pioneering institution that brings together historical and contemporary urban environments to address urgent contemporary questions, including migration, sustainability and social justice.” The jury further praised Den Gamle By for setting “a new benchmark for innovation and relevance” and for its significant public impact across the museum sector.

Founded in 1914, Den Gamle By is Denmark’s national open-air museum of urban history and culture and one of the world’s first museums dedicated to everyday city life. Rather than presenting history through traditional display cases, the museum recreates entire urban environments and invites visitors to step directly into different periods of Danish history.

Historic buildings from across Denmark have been relocated and reconstructed in Aarhus to form living streets and neighbourhoods populated by interiors, workshops, shops and homes. Visitors can experience daily life across four centuries and encounter different generations, lifestyles and social realities through immersive settings and interactive storytelling.

At the core of the museum’s concept is the idea that history is not static, but something experienced, questioned and connected to the present. The museum therefore combines historical interpretation with reflection on contemporary societal issues and encourages visitors to consider how people’s lives, communities and values have changed over time.

Through exhibitions and public programmes, Den Gamle By addresses themes including sustainability, equality, community and participation. The museum’s environmental initiatives were highlighted in particular by the jury, noting activities such as preserving heirloom plant varieties, offering gardening courses and promoting repair and reuse practices.

Community involvement also plays a central role in Den Gamle By’s work. Volunteers contribute expertise, lived experience and local knowledge, helping create a museum environment that is inclusive, participatory and deeply connected to civic life.

The award underlines Denmark’s strong tradition of cultural institutions that preserve heritage while encouraging dialogue, reflection and democratic participation.

Congratulations to Den Gamle By and all those who contribute to making the museum a vibrant meeting place for history, culture and community.