National Museum of the Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands (DK)

65/10090 min

The National Museum of the Faroe Islands, located in Tórshavn, is the premier institution preserving and exhibiting the natural and cultural history of the Faroes. Its main building at Brekkutún 6 houses extensive galleries that trace the islands' geological origins dating back 65 million years, through the pre-settlement period, Viking Age, and Middle Ages. Exhibits include local rocks, minerals, birds, plants, fish, and artifacts from traditional farming and maritime life, providing a comprehensive view of Faroese heritage. Among its most treasured items are the Kirkjubøstólarnir, original medieval pew ends from Saint Olav's Church in Kirkjubøur, which were repatriated from Denmark and are emblematic of Faroese ecclesiastical art. Additionally, the museum encompasses Heima á Garði in Hoyvík, an open-air farmhouse museum furnished to reflect Faroese domestic life in the 1920s, complete with original buildings, tools, and household items. The museum thus offers visitors an immersive experience into both the natural environment and cultural traditions of the Faroe Islands.

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Astuce: Visit the museum during the summer months when Heima á Garði in Hoyvík is open daily from May 1 to September 30, 10 AM to 5 PM. It is advisable to check opening times and guided tour availability on the official website. Purchasing tickets in advance or in combination with other local museums may offer discounts. The museum's location in Tórshavn is easily accessible, making it convenient for visitors to explore the extensive exhibitions without rush.

Faits intéressants

  • The Kirkjubøstólarnir pew ends are among the most valued cultural items of the museum and have been featured on multiple Faroese postage stamps engraved by Czeslaw Slania.
  • The geological history of the Faroe Islands dates back approximately 65 million years, which is a key focus of the museum's natural history exhibits.
  • Heima á Garði farmhouse in Hoyvík is furnished to represent Faroese domestic life from the 1920s, offering an authentic open-air museum experience.

Histoire

The National Museum of the Faroe Islands was established to preserve the unique natural and cultural heritage of the islands.

Its collections reflect the geological formation of the Faroes approximately 65 million years ago and document human settlement from the Viking Age onward.

A significant milestone was the return of the Kirkjubøstólarnir pew ends from Denmark, reuniting important medieval artifacts with their place of origin.

The inclusion of Heima á Garði as an open-air museum preserves traditional Faroese rural life from the early 19th to early 20th centuries.

Over time, the museum has expanded its exhibitions to include both natural history and cultural artifacts, becoming a central institution for Faroese identity and heritage.

Guide du lieu

1
Main Museum Building at Brekkutún 6

This building hosts the primary exhibitions detailing the geological, natural, and cultural history of the Faroe Islands, including displays of rocks, minerals, birds, plants, fish, and traditional Faroese artifacts.

2
Kirkjubøstólarnir Pew EndsMiddle Ages

Medieval carved pew ends originally from Saint Olav's Church, highly significant cultural artifacts that were returned from Denmark and are now exhibited in the museum.

3
Heima á Garði Open-Air Farmhouse Museumcirca 1812

Located in Hoyvík near Tórshavn, this farmhouse was built around 1812 and is furnished to reflect Faroese rural life in the 1920s. The site includes original buildings, tools, and household items, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Faroese farming life.

Contact

Téléphone: 340500