Old Uppsala Museum
Uppsala län
Old Uppsala Museum, located in the historic village of Gamla Uppsala near Uppsala, Sweden, offers a compelling journey into the region's ancient past. The museum, inaugurated in 2000 and designed by architect Carl Nyrén, features a striking oval-shaped building reminiscent of a Viking ship, constructed with untreated oak paneling and distinctive roofing. It sits on the southeastern edge of the Gamla Uppsala ancient monument area, providing visitors with grand views of the surrounding archaeological landscape. The exhibits showcase artifacts from various archaeological excavations, including a garnet-adorned sword, ivory gaming pieces, and exquisite goldsmith works, as well as items from the Vendel and Valsgärde boat grave fields. The museum narrates the story of Old Uppsala's significance as a major religious, economic, and political center from the 3rd century AD, highlighting its role as the residence of the legendary Swedish kings of the Yngling dynasty and as the site of important Norse rituals and assemblies. The exhibition concludes around 1164 when Christianity was established and Old Uppsala became Sweden's archbishopric. The museum aims not only to display historical finds but also to invite reflection and discussion about the Iron Age and medieval history of the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Old Uppsala Museum is during the warmer months when the surrounding archaeological sites are more accessible and the views are clearer. It is advisable to check the museum's official website for opening hours and any special exhibitions or events. Purchasing tickets in advance can help avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers valuable insights for history enthusiasts and families alike, and there may be discounts available for students, seniors, or groups. Combining a visit to the museum with a walk around the Gamla Uppsala burial mounds and other nearby historical landmarks enhances the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Old Uppsala was widely known in Northern Europe during prehistory as the residence of Swedish kings from the Yngling dynasty.
- •The site hosted the Thing of all Swedes, a general assembly held from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, coinciding with the Disting fair and the Dísablót Norse religious celebration.
- •Medieval sources describe a magnificent golden temple at Old Uppsala where human and animal sacrifices were performed every nine years.
- •The museum building's architecture is inspired by the shape of a Viking ship, with untreated oak paneling and a distinctive roof with falbräder.
- •Artifacts in the museum include a garnet-studded sword, ivory game pieces, and valuable goldsmith works from archaeological excavations in the area.
History
Old Uppsala has been a significant center since the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, known as the residence of the Swedish kings of the legendary Yngling dynasty.
It was the main hub of the Swedes and hosted the Thing of all Swedes, a general assembly linked to religious festivals and fairs.
During the Middle Ages, it was the largest village in Uppland and became Sweden's archbishopric in 1164.
The museum itself was established in 2000, originally named Gamla Uppsala Historical Centre, and later became part of Upplandsmuseet in 2022.
The building was designed by Carl Nyrén and inaugurated by King Carl XVI Gustaf.
Place Guide
Museum Building2000
Designed by architect Carl Nyrén, the museum building features an oval shape with pointed ends resembling a Viking ship. Its exterior is clad in untreated oak panels, and the roof is covered with falbräder, traditional roofing boards with grooves. The building offers impressive views of the Gamla Uppsala ancient monument area through a large window section.
Archaeological Exhibits
The museum houses artifacts from various excavations around Gamla Uppsala, including a garnet-adorned sword, ivory gaming pieces, and exquisite goldsmith works. It also features items from the Vendel and Valsgärde boat grave fields, illustrating the area's rich Iron Age culture and long-distance contacts.
Contact
Phone: 018-23 93 01
