Old Nuuk
Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq
Old Nuuk is a historic neighborhood within Nuuk Centrum, the southwestern part of Greenland's capital city, overlooking the Nuup Kangerlua fjord. It encompasses several of the city's oldest settlements and landmarks, including the Lutheran Nuuk Cathedral known locally as Annaassisitta Oqaluffia and the statue of Hans Egede, a key figure in Greenland's colonial history. The area is characterized by prefabricated single-family houses and hosts two of the oldest cemeteries in the city, alongside the Kalaaliaraq Market, a lively hub for local trade and culture. Historically, Old Nuuk includes the area known as Noorliit, which was the site of the Moravian mission New Herrnhut, established in 1747 and notable for constructing Greenland's first church. The Lutheran mission, originally on Hope Island, was relocated to the mainland and named Godthaab in 1728 by the royal governor Claus Paarss. These two missions operated separately until the Moravian mission departed Greenland in 1900, leaving a rich legacy of religious and cultural history. Today, Old Nuuk blends its colonial past with modern urban life, making it a unique destination for visitors interested in Greenland's heritage and vibrant community life.
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Tip: Visitors should explore Old Nuuk during the summer months when the weather is milder and outdoor markets like Kalaaliaraq are most active. Booking guided tours in advance can provide deeper insights into the area's missionary history and cultural landmarks. While no specific ticketing is required to explore the neighborhood, checking opening hours for the Nuuk Cathedral and other historic sites is recommended. Discounts may be available for students and seniors at certain attractions. Comfortable footwear is advisable due to uneven historic streets.
Interesting facts
- •Old Nuuk includes two of the oldest cemeteries in Greenland's capital city.
- •The Moravian mission New Herrnhut built the first church ever constructed in Greenland in 1747.
- •The Lutheran mission was originally based on Hope Island before moving to the mainland in 1728.
- •The statue of Hans Egede, a key colonial figure, is located in Old Nuuk.
- •Kalaaliaraq Market, a traditional Greenlandic market, is situated in Old Nuuk.
History
Old Nuuk's origins trace back to the early 18th century when the Lutheran mission was moved from Hope Island to the mainland in 1728 and named Godthaab by Governor Claus Paarss.
In 1747, the Moravian mission established New Herrnhut nearby, building Greenland's first church and creating a separate settlement that coexisted alongside the Lutheran mission.
These missions operated independently for over 150 years, profoundly influencing the religious and cultural landscape of Nuuk.
The Moravian mission left Greenland in 1900, after which the two areas gradually integrated into the modern city structure known today as Nuuk Centrum.
The area's architecture and cemeteries reflect this layered missionary and colonial history.
Place Guide
Church of Our Savior (Annaassisitta Oqaluffia)18th century
The Lutheran Nuuk Cathedral, locally known as Annaassisitta Oqaluffia, is one of the oldest religious buildings in Greenland, serving as a central place of worship and historical landmark in Old Nuuk.
Statue of Hans Egede20th century
A monument dedicated to Hans Egede, the Danish-Norwegian missionary known as the 'Apostle of Greenland', commemorating his role in establishing the Lutheran mission in the early 18th century.
Kalaaliaraq Market
A vibrant traditional market in Old Nuuk where locals sell handicrafts, fresh fish, and local produce, reflecting Greenlandic culture and daily life.
Noorliit (New Herrnhut) Area1747
The former site of the Moravian mission New Herrnhut, established in 1747, notable for building Greenland's first church and operating as a separate settlement until 1900.
