Museum of Archaeology | Stavanger

The Museum of Archaeology (Arkeologisk Museum) in Stavanger, Norway, is an important cultural institution that focuses on the prehistoric and historical archaeology of the region. The museum offers a fascinating look into the ancient past of Stavanger and its surroundings, with a special emphasis on the Viking Age, the early medieval period, and the development of human societies in the area. It is part of the larger University of Stavanger (UiS) and serves as both a research facility and a public museum.

Overview and Location

• Location: The Museum of Archaeology is situated in Stavanger and is located in Lagård, a district in the city. It is housed in a modern facility that is easily accessible from the city center. The museum is part of the University of Stavanger and is one of the key cultural attractions in the region.
• Purpose: The museum’s primary goal is to present the results of archaeological research in the region, showcasing the development of human settlements and the history of Stavanger and its surrounding areas from prehistoric times to the medieval period.

Key Exhibits and Collections

• Prehistoric Artifacts: The museum's collection includes a wide range of prehistoric artifacts, including tools, pottery, jewelry, and other objects from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. These items offer valuable insights into the daily life, technologies, and cultural practices of early human societies in the region.
• Viking and Medieval Artifacts: One of the museum’s primary areas of focus is the Viking Age and early medieval period. Visitors can see a variety of Viking-era objects, including weapons, jewelry, and domestic items, as well as artifacts from the Middle Ages, such as coins, tools, and church relics. These exhibits highlight the region's role during the Viking Age and the subsequent Christianization of Norway.
• Excavated Items: Many of the artifacts on display have been discovered during archaeological excavations in the Stavanger region. The museum often showcases the results of these digs, offering a glimpse into how archaeologists uncover and interpret ancient sites.
• Burial Practices: The museum explores ancient burial practices, including those from the Viking Age, with displays of burial goods and descriptions of the rituals associated with death and burial. This includes insights into Viking ship burials and the significance of burial mounds found in the region.

Thematic Displays and Focus Areas

• The Settlement of Stavanger: The museum provides in-depth exhibits on the early settlement of Stavanger and its development through different historical periods. It highlights how the area's geography and climate influenced human habitation and the establishment of communities in the region.
• Stone Age and Bronze Age: The museum offers a detailed look at the Stone Age and Bronze Age in Stavanger, with exhibits on early human tools, cave paintings, and early farming practices. It explores the shift from a hunter-gatherer society to agricultural communities in Norway.
• Viking Ships and Maritime Culture: Given Stavanger’s strong maritime heritage, the museum places a significant focus on the Vikings' maritime culture, shipbuilding techniques, and their influence on Scandinavian seafaring traditions. It showcases models and replicas of Viking ships, as well as items related to Viking trade, exploration, and warfare.
• Medieval Stavanger: The museum also explores the medieval period, including the early Christianization of Norway and the development of towns, churches, and monasteries in the region. This period marks a pivotal transition in Norwegian society, from Viking traditions to Christian rule.

Educational Programs and Events

• Workshops and Lectures: The museum offers various workshops, lectures, and seminars for those interested in learning more about the archaeological work being done in the Stavanger region and beyond. These programs are aimed at both adults and children and provide deeper insights into the processes of archaeology and historical research.
• Guided Tours: Visitors can participate in guided tours of the museum, where expert guides provide additional context and background on the exhibits, explaining the significance of the artifacts and archaeological discoveries. The tours are available in several languages and can be customized for different age groups.
• Educational Outreach: The Museum of Archaeology runs outreach programs for schools and other educational institutions, allowing students to learn about the prehistoric and Viking past through hands-on activities, artifact handling, and interactive learning experiences.

Temporary Exhibitions

• Special Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes or archaeological discoveries. These exhibitions often highlight new research, archaeological digs, or special topics in Norwegian or international archaeology. Past exhibitions have included themes like Viking artifacts, Roman antiquities, and prehistoric burial practices.

Conclusion

The Museum of Archaeology in Stavanger is an essential destination for anyone interested in the region's ancient history and cultural heritage. Its extensive collection of artifacts, along with its interactive exhibits and educational programs, provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the prehistoric, Viking, and medieval periods in Norway. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an archaeology student, or a family looking to learn more about the past, the museum offers a fascinating and informative experience that brings Stavanger’s rich cultural history to life.