Valdres Folkemuseum
Innlandet
Valdres Folkemuseum, situated on Storøya near Fagernes in Innlandet county, Norway, is one of the country's largest open-air museums. Founded in 1901, it preserves the traditional rural district culture of Valdres through about 95 original buildings relocated from various farms, alongside around 20,000 artifacts. The museum's layout features larger buildings near the entrance and smaller farmhouses extending toward Strandefjorden lake. Notable historic buildings include Handeloftet, dating back to the 16th century, Hovistabburet from the 13th century with medieval ornamentation, Brennbygningen from circa 1740, and Rognebygningen, a former officer's and bailiff's farm with ties to notable historical figures. The museum also hosts cultural events such as folk music festivals and open-air theatre, and houses the Norwegian Institute of Bunad and Folk Costume, emphasizing traditional costumes and folk heritage. A modern reception building opened in 2010 enhances visitor facilities, including exhibition spaces, a café, and a shop. Valdres Folkemuseum offers a comprehensive insight into Norwegian rural life, folk traditions, and architectural history, making it a unique cultural destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Valdres Folkemuseum is during the warmer months when outdoor exhibits and cultural events like folk music festivals are active. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during festival periods. The museum offers discounts for groups and seniors. Visitors should allow ample time to explore the extensive grounds and various buildings comfortably. The new reception building provides amenities such as a café and shop for convenience.
Interesting facts
- •Valdres Folkemuseum is Norway's fourth largest open-air museum with about 95 historic buildings.
- •Hovistabburet dates back to the 13th century and contains a unique 'virgin room' with medieval doorpost ornaments.
- •Handeloftet, the museum's first building, was originally constructed between 1530 and 1640 and features an exterior gallery on three sides.
- •Rognebygningen served historically as an officer's farm, bailiff's farm, and later an inn, hosting notable residents like Captain Johan Reinert and Captain Jacob de Caucheron.
- •The museum houses the Norwegian Institute of Bunad and Folk Costume, dedicated to traditional Norwegian dress and folk culture.
History
Valdres Folkemuseum was established in 1901, inspired by a desire to preserve the cultural heritage of the Valdres region.
Initial collections were assembled through local efforts, with key acquisitions including Handeloftet in 1905.
The museum relocated to its current site on Storøya in 1917, gradually expanding its collection to include nearly 100 historic buildings, some dating back to the 13th century.
Over the decades, the museum has evolved to become Norway's fourth largest open-air museum, incorporating modern facilities in 2010 to enhance visitor experience.
Place Guide
Handeloftet1530–1640
The first building acquired by the museum, originally from Hande farm, built between 1530 and 1640. It features an exterior gallery on three sides and is believed to have been a main residential house rather than a storage loft.
Hovistabburet13th century
A 13th-century storage house from Hovi farm notable for its 'virgin room' on the upper floor with medieval ornamental doorposts. It was moved to the museum in 1944 and restored in 1960.
Brennbygningencirca 1740
Main house from Brenna village, dating to around 1740. It features built-in beds on the top floor designed to retain warmth during cold winters.
Rognebygningen1670–1680
Main house from Rogne farm built between 1670 and 1680, historically serving as an officer's farm, bailiff's farm, and inn. Hosted notable figures such as Captain Johan Reinert and Captain Jacob de Caucheron.
Contact
Phone: 61 35 99 00
