How To See This Incredible Viking Ship Reconstruction In Norway

10.05.2024 - 15:21 / forbes.com

More than a thousand years ago, Norse explorers set sail from Scandinavia in search of new opportunities, marking the dawn of the Viking Age.

With its rich archaeological sites and burial ship discoveries offering a direct link to the era of raiding and trading that reshaped the medieval world, Norway is one of the leading destinations in the world to learn more about this iconic era.

Norway’s star Viking Age attractions—the world-famous Oseberg, Gokstad and Tune Viking ships—have been off public display for several years now pending careful reconstruction of their museum home in Oslo.

But, while the hotly-anticipated opening of the Museum of the Viking Age is still more than two years away, there are other wonderful opportunities to explore Viking history throughout Norway.

One of the most notable opportunities is found in the heart of the Norwegian fjords. The reconstructed Myklebust Viking ship is the star attraction at Sagastad, a new Viking Age museum in Nordfjordeid.

The modern, purpose-built waterfront building features large rear doors and a ramp down to the fjord to facilitate launching of the vessel, something that happens on special occasions.

Visitors can board the vessel using a gangway and admire the intricate woodwork. Shields and helmets are available for a must-have photo opportunity.

The remainder of the museum is dedicated to the discovery of the remains of the Myklebust ship burial, the story of the chieftain buried with the boat, the story behind its reconstruction, and Nordfjordeid’s role in the Viking Age.

Don’t miss the English language film (playing on a loop) and the chance to play the role of a Viking in a VR game.

In 1874, a young archaeologist traveled to Nordfjordeid to examine a significant burial mound. Although overshadowed by later discoveries of intact ships like Gokstad and Oseberg at the Oslofjord, the Nordfjord site played a pivotal role in our understanding of the Viking Age.

This striking mound contained the remnants of a Viking ship and numerous high-status objects from the late 9th century, hinting at the rich Norse culture and rituals of that era.

The remains of the ship, named the ‘Myklebust ship’, believed to have been burned during the burial rites, also contained traces of bones and an arrowhead, suggesting the chieftain or other prominent figure buried here died in battle.

An exhibition at the museum speculates he may have been King Audbjørn, who according to the Icelandic sagas fought Harald Fairhair at the Second Battle of Solskjel.

The Myklebust ship has recently been brought to life once again by skilled boat builders from Bjørkedalen, a town with deep roots in traditional shipbuilding. The result has become a wonderful attraction for both locals and