The National Museum in Oslo is a prominent cultural institution in Norway, established in 2003 through the merger of four major Norwegian museums. This merger created a singular entity housing an extensive and diverse collection of art, artifacts, and historical pieces, making it a pivotal hub for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and tourists alike.
The museum’s roots can be traced back to the formation of the Royal Collection of Paintings in 1837, which laid the foundation for what would eventually become the National Gallery. Over the years, several institutions with distinct focuses, such as the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Gallery, coalesced to form the present-day National Museum.
What can I see in the National Museum?
The National Museum holds an impressive array of collections that span various art forms and historical periods. The museum’s most acclaimed collection includes paintings by renowned Norwegian artists such as Edvard Munch, Johan Christian Dahl, and Adolph Tidemand, among others.
Edvard Munch, the iconic Norwegian painter, holds a special place in the museum’s collection. His masterpiece “The Scream,” an iconic depiction of human anguish, is part of the museum’s impressive display. Additionally, the museum showcases various other significant works by Munch, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of the artist’s life and oeuvre.
Aside from paintings, the museum features decorative arts, including furniture, design, and crafts, highlighting the evolution of Norwegian design and craftsmanship over the years.
Continuing the work of the National Gallery.
The National Museum has taken up the mantle of the former National Gallery, ensuring the preservation and expansion of its collections. While the National Gallery’s physical entity is now part of the larger National Museum, the essence of its rich art and historical treasures remains intact and easily accessible to the public.
The museum continues to curate and exhibit exceptional traditional and contemporary art, staying true to the commitment of its predecessors to offer an immersive and educational experience for visitors. The fusion of history and modernity showcased at the museum allows for a comprehensive exploration of art and cultural evolution over time.
The National Museum in Oslo
Address: Brynjulf Bulls plass 3, 0250, Oslo
Opening times: 10:00-17:00 (Thursday – Sunday), 10:00-20:00 (Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
How much does it cost to visit the National Museum?
Adults must pay about 200 NOK to enter the museum. Pensioners can enter at about half price, while children under 17 years can enter the museum for free.
Temporary exhibitions in the National Musems.
Sometimes we write about temporary exhibitions in the museum. If there are anything happening right now that we have written about, then you can read more about them below.
How can I get to the National Museum?
The easiest way to get to the National Museum is by tram 13 and then getting of the tram at Aker Brygge. If not, you can always walk to the area that is close to the popular Karl Johans Avenue, Akershus Fortress, and other popular areas in the center of Oslo.
The museum’s opening hours and any temporary exhibitions can be checked on its official website, ensuring visitors have the most updated information for their visit.
For anyone with a passion for art, history, or a curiosity about Norway’s cultural heritage, the National Museum in Oslo stands as a testament to the country’s rich artistic legacy and offers an enriching experience for those who step into its galleries.
