Nordvegen History Center

For 3000 years kings would control and collect tax from the ships that were forced to enter through the narrow strait of Karmsundet continue on the trade route that gave Norway its name, Nordvegen (meaning the north way).

At Nordvegen History Center you can hear about how Avaldsnes became the earliest Norwegian royal seat. You will meet Harald Hårfagre (the first king of Norway) who will introduce you to the petty kings that controlled the Norwegian coast from Avaldsnes - both before and after his time. Some of these petty kings we know from tales of heroes and kings, and old poems. Others we know from archeological findings.

In Nordvegen History Center you can also get an insight into the magical world that was real to the people of that time. You will hear about sorcerers, female demigod warriors and the norse gods.

Avaldsnes - The place for storytelling

In 998, Odin came to Avaldsnes and told stories to Olav Tryggvason. In the 13th century, Snorre (one of our main sources of knowledge from norse culture) visited this royal estate. This is also where Tormod Torfæus wrote the first history of Norway in latin.

At Nordvegen History center we tell stories with the help of modern means such as film, sound, light etc.

An underground building

The cultural landscape at Avaldsnes is of great national value. Most of the History Museum has therefore been build under ground in order to protect the cultural landscape and the medieval church. From Karmsundet one can see the facade made of glass and concrete. From the Church you only see the round entrance that is made to symbolize "Mimes Well", the spring of knowledge in norse mythology.

Welcome to an exciting experience!