Tønder has still more to offer. There are innumerable large and small specialized shops, cozy cafés and good restaurants.

Tønder was established as a trading centre at the base of the delta of the Vidå stream, during the first half of the 12th century. In 1243, the town was endowed with the privileges of a borough. Throughout the Middle Ages, Tønder was a port. However, this changed halfway through the Middle Ages, when the first dikes along the Wadden Sea were built. What Tønder lost as a port, had to make up for in trade with oxen and lace work.

Tønder became a wealthy town which is reflected in the many handsome houses. The main street of the town is characterised by the gabled houses and the picturesque, narrow cobbled streets giving Tønder its unique appearance, even today where it is a modern shopping town.
Right in the centre of Tønder, the Church of Christ, erected in 1592, rises majestically. The baroque interior of the church is one of the finest in Denmark.

Gallerie Rasmus
Østergade 9
6270 Tønder

Tønder as Christmas Town
Tønder is also renowned for its Christmas events. The whole town is decorated, and the market place, close to the Church of Christ, is a perfect setting for the most delightful Christmas fair in Denmark.

Tønder Museum

Along with the Museums of Tønder, situated on the castle hill, and the tiny specialized museum displaying lace work, Drøhses Hus, the Church of Christ is one of the main cultural attractions in the town. The Museums of Tønder, which include the handsome tall water tower, have a permanent exhibition of the best chairs created by the furniture designer Hans J Wegner, which is truly worth a visit. In the Museums, you will find the history of civilisation of the town displayed in the magnificent collection of silver ware, furniture, lace work and tiles. In addition, Nordic and North German paintings from the past century are displayed in the pure style halls of the Museum of Art in South Jutland.

Tønder Festival

Moreover, nowadays Tønder has many different events, for example the Tønder Music Festival, the grand Danish Folk Music Festival and the Festival of Lace Work which takes place every 3rd year.