Svalbard Museum

Join us on a journey through Svalbard’s history, from its discovery in 1596 to the present day.

Be amazed by the extreme natural environment, watch prehistoric reptiles swim by, and step inside a real trappers’ cabin.

History

The museum tells Svalbard’s 400-year-long story — one filled with drama and unimaginable hardship, but also with courage and unbreakable optimism. Whalers and trappers once struggled to make a living here, while coal mining laid the foundation for the Norwegian and Russian mining communities. The exploration of the Arctic and daring expeditions are also an important part of this captivating history.

Nature

At the heart of the exhibition, you’ll meet all the animals that live on Svalbard and have adapted to its harsh climate. You’ll also find many of the bird species that spend all or part of the year here.

Svalbard’s geology is truly unique. Ancient forests and swamps have, over millions of years, been transformed into coal, and dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures have left their traces.

As the climate grows warmer, the Arctic is once again changing.

Activities for children

The exhibition is designed to give children exciting experiences too. They can dig out a fossilized plesiosaur, crawl through a coal mine tunnel, or make a glacier calve.

Museum Shop

Here you’ll find high-quality souvenirs and gifts, including warm knitted garments and beautiful jewelry made by local artisans. The museum shop also offers Longyearbyen’s best selection of maps and books about Svalbard and the Arctic.

Want to know more? The museum has an extensive collection of objects and historical photographies

Atwww.digitaltmuseum.no many of the objects at the museum are presented. A large part of the photo collection is digitized and can be found in our database.

Awards and certifications

European Council Award for best European Museum (2008)

Eco certification: Eco-lighthouse

The museum is open all year round. Located in the «Forskningsparken» (Science park). Welcome!