Upernavik Museum

The Upernavik Museum is an open-air site with several historical colonial buildings arranged in the old quarter of town. The grounds feature an old church, administrative structures, and a traditional shop where visitors can explore the past of this region.

The museum was founded in 1953 and stands as the northernmost open-air museum in the world. It preserves the original colonial architecture that shaped life in the Upernavik region for generations.

The museum displays traditional boats such as kayaks and an umiaq, which tell the story of hunting and travel in the area. Visitors can see how these watercraft were central to daily life and survival in this part of Greenland.

The site is located at Niuertup Ottup Aqq B12 in the city center and is easily accessible on foot. Staff members are available to guide visitors through the buildings and share information about the colonial period.

The museum preserves a complete umiaq boat that was originally operated by men during hunting expeditions. When used for travel, women would row while elder men took the role of steersmen.

Location: Avannaata

Official opening: 1953

Website: http://upernavik.museum.gl

GPS coordinates: 72.78070,-56.15180

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:03