Libraries are normally quiet. Aarhus's principal library is not any completely different, besides when “Gongen” (‘The Gong') rings a couple of instances a day. Stated to be the world's largest tubular bell, it stands prominently within the constructing, measuring about 25 toes lengthy (7.5 meters) and weighing round 6,600 kilos (3 tons).
At any time when a toddler is born in Aarhus, the new child's dad and mom can select to announce it remotely by urgent a button on the hospital, which triggers the hanging arm of the library bell. Designed by artist Kirstine Roepstorff and engraved with a mixed solar and infinity motif symbolizing new life, the bell sounds once to mark the beginning.
Solid in bronze in 2015 by the Grassmayr Bell Foundry in Austria, the bell was put in as a part of the town's preparations for Aarhus turning into European Capital of Tradition in 2017. Its hole tubular design produces a deep, resonant tone distinct from conventional forged bells.
