VĂ€stmanland County Museum
VÀstmanlands lÀn
VÀstmanland County Museum, located in central VÀsterÄs, is a regional museum operated by Region VÀstmanland. Its mission is to deepen knowledge about the cultural heritage of VÀstmanland, raise awareness, and enrich perspectives on the past, present, and future. The museum moved in 2010 from VÀsterÄs Castle to its current location at Karlsgatan 2, where it shares premises with VÀsterÄs Art Museum. It houses notable collections, including the Tunaskatten, the largest find of ancient gold artifacts in a female grave in Sweden. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions that cover prehistoric peoples, medieval power structures, modern times, and local industry, including the story of Mimer, a significant regional engine manufacturer. With free admission and a program of interactive activities for children and youth, the museum is a vibrant cultural hub that connects visitors with VÀstmanland's history and identity.
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Tip: The museum offers free admission year-round, making it accessible to all visitors. It is best visited during weekdays when opening hours are longer, especially Wednesdays when the museum stays open until 8 PM. Booking tickets in advance is not necessary due to free entry. Families with children can enjoy special interactive activities like egg hunts and playful guided tours that challenge participants to distinguish truth from fiction. Check the museum's website for up-to-date information on special exhibitions and events to enrich your visit.
Interesting facts
- âąThe museum's collection includes the Tunaskatten, the largest find of ancient gold artifacts in a female grave in Sweden.
- âąIt shares its current building with VĂ€sterĂ„s Art Museum, creating a combined cultural venue in VĂ€sterĂ„s.
- âąThe museum organizes interactive activities for children and youth, such as egg hunts and guided tours focusing on distinguishing truth from fiction.
- âąAdmission to the museum is always free, encouraging wide public access to cultural heritage.
History
VÀstmanland County Museum was historically housed in VÀsterÄs Castle, where it maintained exhibition spaces, archives, and a county library.
In September 2010, the museum relocated to Karlsgatan 2 in VÀsterÄs, sharing space with the local art museum to better serve the public.
The museum is managed by Region VĂ€stmanland, which oversees cultural initiatives in the county.
Its collections include significant archaeological finds such as the Tunaskatten, reflecting VĂ€stmanland's rich prehistoric heritage.
Over time, the museum has evolved to encompass a broad narrative of the region's history, from ancient times through medieval and modern periods.
Place Guide
Tunaskatten ExhibitPrehistoric era
This exhibit features the Tunaskatten, an extraordinary archaeological treasure consisting of prehistoric gold items discovered in a female grave, illustrating the region's ancient wealth and craftsmanship.
Medieval Power and PeopleMedieval period
An exhibition exploring the medieval history of VĂ€stmanland, highlighting the social structures, culture, and power dynamics of the time.
Modern Times and Industry19th-20th century
This section showcases the development of VĂ€stmanland through modern times, including the story of Mimer, a prominent regional engine manufacturer, reflecting the industrial heritage of the area.
Contact
Phone: 021-39 32 22
