Norwegian Museum of Decorative Arts and Design

The Norwegian Museum of Decorative Arts and Design presents furniture, textiles, glass, ceramics, and metalwork that show how people lived in Norway across different periods. The collection spans from medieval times to recent decades and is displayed across multiple gallery sections.

The museum began in 1876 as an effort to preserve and display Norwegian craft traditions. Over time it has grown and adapted, eventually merging with other art institutions to expand its reach and access.

The name reflects how Norwegian society valued craft and everyday design as expressions of identity. Throughout the galleries, visitors see how people furnished their homes and which objects they considered worth keeping across different time periods.

The museum is located in central Oslo and is easy to reach by foot or public transportation. Visitors should allow two to three hours to walk through the galleries at a comfortable pace.

The museum holds a special archive with photographs of historical costumes captured from 360-degree angles. This collection allows visitors and researchers to examine ancient garments from every direction, as if walking around them.

Location: Oslo Municipality

Inception: 1876

Website: http://nasjonalmuseet.no/no/besok_oss/visningssteder/kunstindustrimuseet

GPS coordinates: 59.91840,10.74310

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40