The childhood home of Thor Heyerdahl

At Steingata 7 in Larvik stands the white wooden house where Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl (1914–2002) grew up. From his childhood bedroom, he looked out over the Larvik Fjord and the sea that would later play an important role in his life. As a boy, Heyerdahl was fascinated by nature and wildlife. He even created a small museum in his bedroom, with a viper among its exhibits.

From Larvik to the Pacific Ocean

His childhood curiosity led to a life of research and exploration. In 1947, Heyerdahl crossed the Pacific Ocean aboard the balsa-wood raft Kon-Tiki. Expeditions aboard Ra, Ra II and Tigris followed. At the Maritime Museum in Larvik, you can discover more about Heyerdahl and other local explorers. In nearby Stavern, you can also see the Tangaroa raft, which retraced Kon-Tiki's voyage in 2006.

Explore the childhood home virtually

Regular guided tours inside the house are currently unavailable. Instead, the Thor Heyerdahl Institute offers a virtual 360-degree tour, providing a glimpse into the explorer's childhood home.

The house can be viewed from the street. At Tollerodden, you can also visit the Thor Heyerdahl Monument, commemorating Larvik's internationally renowned explorer.