The Museum of Archaeology

The Museum of Archaeology in Stavanger presents objects spanning thousands of years of regional history, from simple stone tools to ornate jewelry and weapons. The collection draws from archaeological discoveries across Rogaland and shows how communities developed across different time periods.

The museum documents findings stretching back to the Stone Age and shows how the region was first settled. Later exhibits reveal the Viking Age and medieval periods, when this area became a center for regional trade and activity.

Visitors can explore how hunting and craft shaped daily life in ancient Norwegian communities. The displays reveal personal objects that show how people used animals and natural resources in their settlements.

The museum is centrally located in Stavanger and easy to navigate, with clear signage throughout. Plan for about two to three hours to see the main exhibitions at a comfortable pace.

A notable discovery is the nearly complete skeleton of a polar bear found in an ancient cellar on the island of Finnøy. This unusual find suggests that rare animals were valuable commodities in ancient times.