Norsk Folkemuseum (The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History)

Norsk Folkemuseum (The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History) Review

One of the largest open-air museums in Europe, this is a perfect way to see Norway in a day. From the stoic stave church (built in AD 1200) to farmers' houses made of sod, the old buildings here span Norway's regions and most of its recorded history. Indoors, there's a fascinating display of folk costumes. The displays of richly embroidered, colorful bunader (national costumes) from every region includes one set at a Telemark country wedding. The museum also has stunning dragon-style wood carvings from 1550 and some beautiful rosemaling, or decorative painted floral patterns. The traditional costumes of the Sami (Lapp) people of northern Norway are exhibited around one of their tents. If you're visiting in summer, ask about Norwegian Evening, a summer program of folk dancing, guided tours, and food tastings. On Sundays in December, the museum holds Oslo's largest Christmas market.