The Lofotr Viking Museum is a reconstruction of the 83 metres long Chiefdom that was erected at Borg in the Lofoten islands around 500 AD. Travel there by car or bus from Svolvær and Henningsvær in the east, or Leknes in the west.
Full dinner or a quick stop
For a full dinner with presentations of life in the Viking age, done by professional guides in Viking costumes, you must book in advance. It is worth the extra planning. Lamb and wild boar are popular ingredients on the menu, served with the traditional Viking drink mead, which is alcohol, honey and herbs.
You do not have to book in advance to see the museum. Just have a stop on your way through the islands.
During the main season, from 15 June to 15 August, broth will be served in the banqueting hall every day. You can also ask to taste mead, served in traditional Viking glasses.
Every half hour there will be a horse carriage from the chieftain’s house the boathouse. You can participate on a rowing trip with a reconstruction of a famous Viking ship.
Guided tours are included in the entrance ticket, and there are several tours during the day. Look for information when you arrive, or call in advance for more detailed information. Groups have to order guided tours in advance.
History
When you enter the Viking chieftain’s house, it is like being transported back to the Viking Age. Light flickers from the hearts and gleams from the ceiling lamps, and the smell of tar fills your nostrils.
Archaeological studies commenced here in 1983, and from 1986 to 1989, a joint Scandinavian research project was conducted at Borg. Excavations brought to light remains of the largest building ever to be found in the Viking Realm, in Norway or elsewhere in Europe.
For the first time, archaeologists were sure they had found a chieftain's dwelling.
The excavations revealed that a 67-metre long building had been erected as early as in the sixth century. It was rebuilt and expanded in the beginning of the Viking Era to a length of 83 metres.
For further information, including opening hours and prices, please contact Lofotr Viking Museum.