Murberget County Museum
Västernorrlands län
Västernorrlands Museum, located in Härnösand, Sweden, is the official county museum dedicated to preserving and presenting the cultural heritage of Västernorrland County. Established originally in 1880, it has grown into a comprehensive institution covering history, archaeology, ethnology, culture, and art. The museum operates an extensive open-air museum called Murberget, which is Sweden's second largest after Skansen, featuring historical buildings such as a medieval-style church, old townhouses, and traditional village environments. The museum is responsible for safeguarding archaeological sites and historical environments throughout the county, collaborating with local authorities. Its collections and exhibitions highlight both prehistoric and historical aspects of the region, including the UNESCO World Heritage High Coast area. The museum also hosts archives, conservation studios, and a venue for cultural events, making it a vibrant center for research and public engagement in northern Sweden's cultural heritage.
Plan your trip to Sweden with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are encouraged to check the museum's official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the open-air museum Murberget is fully accessible. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for groups and special events. The museum offers discounts for seniors, students, and families. Guided tours are available and can enhance the experience, especially for those interested in the region's archaeology and traditional Swedish culture.
Interesting facts
- •Murberget is the second largest open-air museum in Sweden after Skansen.
- •The museum preserves the UNESCO World Heritage High Coast area.
- •The first collection included exotic objects from the South Seas and South America donated by Captain Daniel Norlin.
- •The medieval-style church at Murberget was built between 1925 and 1929 in northern Swedish style.
- •The museum's building was completed in 1994 and includes archives, conservation studios, and a café.
History
The museum's origins date back to 1880, initiated by Bishop Lars Landgren who founded the Vesternorrlands läns museisällskap.
After a period of inactivity following Landgren's death, Theodor Hellman revitalized the museum in 1909, inspired by Stockholm's Skansen, aiming to create a northern farming community in miniature.
Hellman served as director until 1946, during which time the open-air museum Murberget was established.
His son Bo Hellman succeeded him in 1947, expanding the museum's urban exhibits and archaeological documentation.
The museum received its own dedicated building in 1994, designed by architect Gunnar Mattsson.
In 2018, the institution adopted its current name, Västernorrlands Museum, reflecting its broad cultural mission.
Place Guide
Murberget Open-Air Museum
A large open-air museum featuring historical buildings such as a medieval-style church, old townhouses, a school, a guesthouse, a Sami camp, a manor environment, and a traditional village. It reflects rural and urban life in northern Sweden across centuries.
Museum Building1994
The main museum building, completed in 1994 and designed by architect Gunnar Mattsson, houses exhibitions, archives, conservation workshops, a lecture hall, and a café with a shop.
Murbergstorget Urban Exhibit
An urban development area added under director Bo Hellman, showcasing historical urban environments of Härnösand and the county.
Contact
Phone: 0611-886 00