Digital Museum Hall

Overview

The Digital Museum Hall, a central feature within The Viking Planet in Oslo, Norway, represents a pioneering approach to historical interpretation. This innovative space is renowned as the world's first digital Viking museum, where cutting-edge technology breathes life into the Viking Age. It offers visitors an immersive journey, moving beyond static displays to engage with Norse history through virtual reality, advanced holograms, interactive exhibits, and a captivating 270-degree cinematic experience. Located conveniently across from Oslo City Hall, it serves as an accessible and engaging portal to a bygone era.

History & Cultural Background

The concept for The Viking Planet, and its immersive Digital Museum Hall, was born from a desire to make Viking history accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences, particularly a digitally-oriented generation. It first opened its doors in Oslo in June 2019, quickly establishing itself as a unique cultural institution. To ensure historical accuracy, the museum collaborates extensively with historians and archaeologists, integrating scholarly understanding into its digital content. The development of its high-quality films and experiences involves acclaimed partners such as Ridley Scott Associates and Dimension Studio, with renowned Norwegian director Erik Gustavson overseeing the content. This modern digital museum complements traditional institutions, providing a vital and engaging alternative for exploring the Viking world, especially while the historic Viking Ship Museum undergoes renovations.

What Makes It Special

The Digital Museum Hall stands apart through its exceptional use of immersive technologies. Visitors are not merely spectators but active participants in the Viking narrative. The experience includes an award-winning VR film titled 'The Ambush,' which plunges you into a Viking battle, enhanced by automated cinema chairs that synchronize with the on-screen action, adding a physical dimension to the visual and auditory immersion. Another highlight is the ability to digitally explore intricate 3D models of iconic Viking artifacts, such as the Oseberg and Gokstad ships, offering details impossible to observe in a traditional museum setting. Interactive timelines provide a deep dive into significant Viking events and battles, while life-sized holograms present historically accurate depictions of Viking figures, making history feel tangible and immediate.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The dedication to historical authenticity is a cornerstone of the Digital Museum Hall. Experts like author and Viking historian Kim Hjardar have been instrumental in meticulously overseeing the design of everything from Viking clothing and weaponry to the architecture of longhouses and ships, ensuring the experiences are as accurate as possible. The 'Ambush' VR film, developed with Ridley Scott Associates, has garnered international acclaim, earning the title of 'Best VR Film' in the UK. The Oslo location of The Viking Planet spans an impressive 1600 square meters, providing ample space for its diverse digital offerings. A fun detail from its opening ceremony in 2019 involved a sword, named Augvaldsbaune, being delivered on horseback from Avaldsnes, a site steeped in Viking royal history. To cater to a global audience, the content within the Digital Museum Hall is thoughtfully available in 12 different languages.

Visitor Perspective

For those planning a visit, the Digital Museum Hall within The Viking Planet is designed for an engaging experience that typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore its various digital realms. While much of the content is suitable for all ages, the virtual reality experiences are generally recommended for visitors aged 12 and up. This recommendation considers both the realistic depictions of Viking life and warfare, and the proper fit of the VR headsets for smaller heads. The entire facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can partake in the digital journey through history. Visitors consistently praise the museum's ability to immerse them fully in the Viking Age, often highlighting the friendly and helpful staff and the clean, well-maintained environment. It offers free Wi-Fi and a complimentary app, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Many find it to be an exhilarating and educational alternative to traditional museums, particularly appreciating its interactive and multi-sensory approach.