Permanent Exhibition

Overview

The Permanent Exhibition at the National Museum of Iceland, aptly named 'Making of a Nation – Heritage and History in Iceland', offers a profound journey through the country's rich past. Located in the heart of Reykjavik, this comprehensive display chronicles over 1,200 years of Icelandic history, from its earliest settlement to the modern era. It serves as the primary gateway for visitors seeking to understand the unique cultural tapestry and historical evolution of this remarkable island nation.

Spread across two floors of the museum, the exhibition presents a chronological narrative, guiding visitors through pivotal moments and transformations in Icelandic society. With approximately 2,000 objects and 1,000 photographs, it provides an unparalleled insight into the daily lives, beliefs, and challenges faced by Icelanders throughout the centuries. The exhibition is designed to be engaging, featuring interactive elements and multimedia displays that bring the past vividly to life, making it an essential stop for anyone wishing to delve into the Icelandic story.

History & Cultural Background

The National Museum of Iceland itself boasts a rich history, founded in 1863 as the Icelandic Antiquities Collection. Over time, it evolved into the institution it is today, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the nation's heritage. The 'Making of a Nation' exhibition is central to this mission, beginning its narrative with the dramatic Age of Settlement in the 9th century, when Norse settlers first arrived on these shores.

Visitors will discover how a society was forged in a challenging natural environment, blending pagan traditions with the eventual adoption of Christianity. The exhibition delves into periods of significant change, including the medieval era, marked by unique church art and the flourishing of sagas, through to centuries of foreign rule and the eventual fight for independence. It then progresses to highlight the technological and social advancements that shaped Iceland into the contemporary nation it is today, culminating in representations of modern connectivity, such as an airport symbolizing Iceland's place in the global community.

What Makes It Special

What sets the 'Making of a Nation' exhibition apart is its meticulous chronological storytelling and the depth of its collection. Rather than just displaying artifacts, it weaves a narrative that allows visitors to trace the continuous thread of Icelandic identity. The exhibition's layout is thoughtful, enabling an immersive experience where each historical period flows naturally into the next.

Key to its distinctiveness are the approximately 2,000 artifacts on display, carefully selected to represent different facets of Icelandic life. These range from everyday tools and clothing to significant historical and religious relics, all contributing to a holistic understanding of the country's past. The use of interactive elements, such as telephones allowing 'conversations' with historical figures, and multimedia presentations, further enhances the visitor's engagement, transforming passive observation into an active learning experience.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The exhibition is rich with compelling stories and fascinating details. A standout artifact is the magnificent Valþjófsstaður door, a 12th-century church door intricately carved with a depiction of the Lion-Knight legend, featuring a knight, a lion, and a dragon. Uniquely, it is also the only Icelandic door to include carvings in runic script, making it a priceless piece of cultural heritage.

Among the Viking Age treasures, you'll encounter axes, swords, and drinking horns, offering glimpses into the lives of the early settlers and their resourcefulness. The display also includes a human skeleton from the settlement era, providing a tangible link to Iceland's ancient inhabitants. As you explore, pay attention to the shift in artifacts – from early pagan burial sites to Christian crosses, altarpieces, and even the first Icelandic Bible, illustrating the profound religious and cultural transformations over time. The exhibition even touches upon DNA research, using the teeth of early Viking settlers to unveil surprising origins, adding a contemporary scientific layer to the historical narrative.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler to Reykjavik, the 'Making of a Nation' exhibition offers a fundamental understanding of Iceland that enriches all other experiences. Visitors consistently recommend allocating at least two to three hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection and interactive elements. The museum is fully accessible, with elevators and facilities catering to various needs, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.

Audio guides are available in multiple languages, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the stories behind the artifacts at their own pace. After exploring the exhibition, a visit to the museum's gift shop offers unique Icelandic souvenirs and books, while the on-site café provides a pleasant spot for reflection. This exhibition is not merely a collection of objects; it's an educational and emotional journey that provides context to the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Iceland, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for this resilient nation.