All Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums to visit in Scandinavia

Discover the artistic treasures of the past at 20 museums in Scandinavia dedicated to medieval and early Renaissance art. These museums showcase masterpieces from a pivotal era in art history.

Are you captivated by medieval and Renaissance art? Here are the best museums to visit in Scandinavia:

  1. Borgund Stave Church1

    Borgund Stave Church

     Borgund
    The Borgund Stave Church is a historical monument located in Borgund, within the Lærdal municipality of Sogn og Fjordane county, Norway. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Norway's rich history.
  2. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History2

    The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

     Oslo
    The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, also known as Norsk Folkemuseum, is located in Bygdøy, Oslo, Norway. It is a cultural history museum that houses extensive collections of artifacts from all social groups and regions of the country. This provides a comprehensive insight into the diverse cultures and histories of Norway.
  3. National Gallery of Denmark3

    National Gallery of Denmark

     Copenhagen
    The National Gallery of Denmark (SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst) is the Danish national gallery, located in Copenhagen. The museum was built in 1896 and designed by the architects Vilhelm Dahlerup and Georg E.W. Miller. In 1970 the building was expanded by architect Niels Koppel and in 1998 a modern
  4. The Swedish History Museum4

    The Swedish History Museum

     Stockholm
    The Swedish History Museum (Statens historiska museum) is the State Historical Museum in the Swedish capital Stockholm. The site dates back to 1866, and the construction of the current site took place between 1934 and 1939. It is the national Swedish museum of archeology and history with more than 2
  5. The Armoury5

    The Armoury

     Trondheim
    The Armoury, also known as the Army Museum, is situated in the Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim, Norway. This location itself is steeped in history, providing a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive collection of military artifacts.
  6. Greyfriars Abbey6

    Greyfriars Abbey

     Ystad
    The Greyfriars Abbey, also known as the Abbey in Ystad, is a significant historical site in Ystad, Sweden. This medieval former friary is recognized as one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the country. Its rich history and architectural beauty make it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, architecture, and culture.
  7. Riksregaliene7

    Riksregaliene

     Trondheim
    The Rigsregalieudstillingen, also known as Norway's Coronation Museum, is an exhibition that showcases the Norwegian crown jewels. It is situated in the Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim, Norway. This location is significant as it is one of the oldest parts of the building, adding to the historical value of the exhibition.
  8. Museum of Medieval Stockholm8

    Museum of Medieval Stockholm

     Stockholm
    The Museum of Medieval Stockholm (Stockholms medeltidsmuseum) is a museum in Stockholm that is located on the Helgeandsholmen Island, north of Stockholm Castle. The Museum of Medieval Stockholm was constructed around old monuments excavated in an archaeological dig. In the museum visitors can experi
  9. Bergenhus Fortress9

    Bergenhus Fortress

     Bergen
    Bergenhus Fortress, located in Bergen, is one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fortresses. The fortress has a rich history, with its oldest parts dating back to the 12th century and the newest additions made during World War II. This historical site offers a unique glimpse into Norway's past, from the medieval period to the 20th century.
  10. Museum of Cultural History10

    Museum of Cultural History

     Oslo
    The exhibitions of the Cultural History Museum are spread across four main buildings in the city center of Oslo. These include the Historical Museum located at Frederiks gate 2 and Frederiks gate 3, the Laboratory at Frederiks Gate 3 and St. Olavs Gate 29, and the Viking Ship Museum situated on the Bygdøy peninsula. Each of these locations offers a unique insight into different aspects of Norway's cultural history, providing a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.
  11. National Museum of Decorative Arts11

    National Museum of Decorative Arts

     Trondheim
    The Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum houses a wide range of collections of both older and newer crafts. Approximately 15% of these collections are displayed in the museum's premises located in Munkegata. This provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of decorative arts.
  12. 12

    Fyresdal bygdemuseum

     Fyresdal
    The Fyresdal Bygdemuseum is situated in the heart of Fyresdal municipality. Although it falls under the jurisdiction of the Vest-Telemark Museum, it is managed by a local board. This gives the museum a unique blend of regional and local influences, making it a fascinating place to explore.
  13. Nordvegen History Centre13

    Nordvegen History Centre

     Avaldsnes
    The Nordvegen History Centre is a unique experience and dissemination centre located in Avaldsnes, on the northern part of the island of Karmøy in Rogaland. It serves as a hub for exploring the rich history of the region, offering a variety of exhibits and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Nordvegen History Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
  14. Om Kloster Museum14

    Om Kloster Museum

     Emborg
    Øm Kloster Museum is a significant historical site located between Mossø and Gudensø. It is dedicated to the illumination of Øm Kloster, a medieval monastery. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the region.
  15. Borgarsyssel Museum15

    Borgarsyssel Museum

     Sarpsborg
    The Borgarsyssel Museum is located in the municipality of Sarpsborg, in Viken county. It serves as the county museum for Østfold and the city museum for Sarpsborg. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a deep dive into the local history and culture.
  16. Utstein Monastery16

    Utstein Monastery

     Stavanger
    Utstein Abbey, situated on the southern shore of the island of Klosterøy in Stavanger municipality, Rogaland county, is recognized as Norway's best-preserved medieval monastery. This historical site offers a unique glimpse into the country's past, with its well-preserved structures providing a tangible link to the medieval period. Visitors can explore the grounds and buildings, appreciating the architectural and historical significance of this important cultural landmark.
  17. The Archbishop's Palace Museum17

    The Archbishop's Palace Museum

     Trondheim
    The Archbishop's Palace, known as Erkebispegården in Norwegian, is a significant historical site located in Trondheim, Norway. It served as the residence of the Archbishop of Nidaros and the administrative center of the Norwegian archdiocese until 1537. This makes it a place of great historical significance and interest for tourists.
  18. Agatunet18

    Agatunet

     Aga
    Agatunet is an open-air museum located in Ullensvang municipality in Vestland county. It is home to 67 protected buildings, making it a significant historical site. The museum is situated north of Odda and south of Utne on the west side of Sørfjorden in inner Hardanger. It provides a unique insight into the architecture and lifestyle of the past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
  19. Øm Kloster Museum19

    Øm Kloster Museum

     Gammel Rye
    Øm Kloster Museum is a historical site that provides insight into the Øm Kloster, situated between the scenic Mossø and Gudensø. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Denmark's medieval monasteries.
  20. 20

    Sancta Birgitta Klostermuseum

     Vadstena kommun
    This museum draws you not only into the history of the convent, but also tells you the story of life in medieval times.