Viking World Museum | Reykjavik

The Viking World Museum (Víkingaheimar) is a captivating cultural and historical attraction located in Keflavik, about 50 kilometers from Reykjavik. It offers visitors an in-depth look into the Viking Age, focusing on the seafaring culture, mythology, and the profound impact of the Norse people on Iceland and the world.

Overview

• Location: The museum is situated near Keflavik International Airport, making it an accessible stop for travelers arriving or departing Iceland. Its coastal location offers scenic views and complements the maritime theme of the exhibits.
• Established: The museum opened in 2009, with a mission to celebrate the Viking Age and its contributions to Icelandic identity and global history.

Architectural Design

• The museum’s design is modern yet evokes the spirit of Viking architecture. Its centerpiece is housed in a striking glass-walled structure, creating a light-filled space that highlights the museum’s main attraction: the Íslendingur Viking ship.

Key Exhibits and Features

1. The Íslendingur Viking Ship

• The Star Attraction: The Íslendingur (meaning "The Icelander") is a full-scale replica of the Gokstad Viking ship, a historic vessel discovered in Norway dating back to around 870 AD.
• Construction: Built in 1996 by shipbuilder Gunnar Marel Eggertsson, the Íslendingur replicates the craftsmanship of Viking shipwrights, using traditional methods and materials.
• Voyage to North America: To celebrate the millennium of Leif Erikson's voyage to North America, Gunnar Marel sailed the Íslendingur from Iceland to North America in 2000, retracing the likely route of the Vikings across the North Atlantic. This journey demonstrated the Vikings' exceptional navigational skills and maritime technology.

Visitors can board the ship, explore its deck, and learn about the challenges of transatlantic voyages during the Viking Age.

2. The Viking Settlement Exhibit

• This exhibit explores the settlement of Iceland, focusing on the arrival of Norse explorers in the late 9th century. Displays include:
  • Artifacts and tools used by Viking settlers.
  • Insights into their daily lives, including farming, crafting, and trade.
  • The adaptation of Viking settlers to Iceland’s challenging environment.

Interactive displays and models help illustrate how the Vikings established communities and thrived in Iceland.

3. The Mythological World

• This section delves into Norse mythology, featuring:
  • Stories of gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja.
  • Interactive exhibits explaining the Nine Worlds of Norse cosmology, such as Asgard and Midgard.
  • The cultural significance of mythological beliefs and their influence on Viking life, art, and storytelling.

4. Viking Exploration

• The museum highlights the Vikings' role as explorers, traders, and settlers, showcasing their:
  • Seafaring innovations, such as clinker-built ships that enabled long-distance voyages.
  • Establishment of settlements across the North Atlantic, from Greenland to Newfoundland.
  • Trade networks that extended as far as Byzantium, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Maps and multimedia displays trace the Vikings' expansive journeys and their enduring impact on world history.

5. Children's Viking Adventure

• For younger visitors, the museum features a kid-friendly exhibit with hands-on activities, Viking-themed costumes, and interactive storytelling. This makes the museum a great destination for families.

Educational Programs and Events

• Workshops and Lectures: The museum hosts events and talks on Viking history, shipbuilding, and Norse mythology, often led by experts and historians.
• Special Exhibitions: Temporary displays frequently complement the permanent collection, focusing on specific aspects of Viking life or Icelandic history.
• Cultural Activities: Visitors can enjoy demonstrations of traditional Viking crafts, cooking, and games during special events.

Visitor Experience

• Immersive Displays: The museum uses a blend of traditional exhibits and modern technology, including interactive screens, 3D reconstructions, and audio guides, to create an engaging experience.
• Scenic Views: The museum’s glass architecture allows for stunning views of the surrounding landscape, creating a connection between Iceland’s natural environment and the Vikings’ maritime heritage.
• Museum Shop and Café: The on-site shop offers Viking-themed souvenirs, books, and handcrafted items, while the café serves refreshments in a cozy setting with panoramic views.

Practical Information

• Location: Víkingabraut 1, Reykjanesbær (near Keflavik).
• Opening Hours: Open year-round, with extended hours in the summer.
• Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
• Nearby Attractions: It’s close to the Blue Lagoon and the Bridge Between Continents, making it a convenient addition to a Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary.

Conclusion

The Viking World Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Viking Age and Iceland's history. Its combination of a world-famous ship, engaging exhibits, and scenic location provides a unique and enriching experience. Whether you're exploring the Íslendingur or delving into Norse mythology, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the legacy of the Vikings and their enduring influence on Icelandic culture and beyond.