Explore Medieval Bergen and the Hidden Treasures Beneath the Cobblestones.
Embark on a journey beneath the city’s surface, uncovering the lives and stories of the medieval past. Through the artefacts discovered during major archaeological excavations at Bryggen in the 1950s and 60s, you will gain access to a treasure trove of objects and building remnants that illuminate the everyday lives of ordinary people from centuries ago. Several metres beneath the ground, traces of a bygone era continue to shape the city today.

The tour begins at the excavation site, where you will encounter the remains of the city’s oldest secular buildings from the early 1100s – exactly where they were unearthed. Here, you’ll gain insight into the history of the townhouses at Bryggen and the devastating fires that repeatedly reduced them to ashes. It’s easy to imagine the crackling flames and the distant toll of church bells.

Next, we move on to an exhibition brimming with captivating finds and stories from the medieval period. You will discover everything from objects that testify to trade and foreign contacts, to toys and clothing from the past. One of the exhibition’s highlights is the world’s largest collection of rune sticks, bearing everything from everyday messages to prayers and love letters.

After the tour, you will have the chance to explore the exhibition at your own pace. Your ticket also grants access to the museum for the rest of the day – the perfect opportunity to delve even deeper into history.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes.
Language: English