The Viking Planet

Overview

The Viking Planet, nestled in the heart of Oslo, Norway, presents a revolutionary approach to experiencing the Viking Age. It stands as the world's first digital Viking museum, captivating visitors with its immersive and technologically advanced exhibits. Opened in June 2019, this cultural landmark offers a dynamic journey back to the era of Norsemen, making history tangible through virtual reality, interactive displays, and holograms. Its central location, directly opposite Oslo City Hall, makes it an easily accessible and compelling destination for anyone exploring Norway's capital.

Far from a traditional museum filled with static artifacts, The Viking Planet utilizes cutting-edge digital storytelling to recreate the lives, voyages, and legends of the Vikings. It serves as an essential complement to Oslo's rich historical landscape, especially while the renowned Museum of the Viking Age is undergoing renovations, offering a vibrant alternative for those eager to delve into Viking heritage.

History & Cultural Background

The Viking Planet meticulously covers the vast and impactful period of the Viking Age, generally spanning from around 793 to 1066 CE. Through its various installations, the museum explores a comprehensive array of themes, including the intricate details of daily Viking life, their advanced shipbuilding and navigation techniques, their formidable weaponry and battle strategies, and the significant roles played by women in Viking society. It also delves into their rich religion and mythology, providing a well-rounded understanding of a complex civilization.

A core commitment of The Viking Planet is historical accuracy. To achieve this, the institution collaborates closely with esteemed experts, including Viking historian Kim Hjardar, who advises on the authentic design of elements such as buildings, weaponry, clothing, and the iconic longships featured in the museum's content. While some experiences offer dramatizations, they are firmly grounded in archaeological discoveries and ancient Norse literature, ensuring an educational foundation for the vivid storytelling.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets The Viking Planet apart is its pioneering use of immersive technology to bring history to life. Visitors are not merely observers; they become active participants in the Viking narrative. The museum's centerpiece includes an award-winning VR film titled 'The Ambush,' created in collaboration with Ridley Scott Associates and Dimension Studios. This acclaimed production, which earned the title of 'Best VR Film in the UK,' uses volumetric capturing technology and is experienced in automated cinema chairs that synchronize with the on-screen action, placing you amidst a Viking raid on Norway's western coast.

Beyond the VR film, guests can immerse themselves in a stunning 270-degree cinematic experience that vividly portrays Viking life and the natural beauty of Norway. Life-sized holograms bring historical figures to 'life,' allowing for a unique encounter with the past. Interactive touchscreens invite exploration of significant historical events, notable Viking exploits, and even provide 3D models of artifacts such as the Oseberg and Gokstad ships, offering a rare digital peek at treasures from the closed Viking Ship Museum. For those seeking more hands-on adventure, the 'Ferd' VR game allows players to engage in Viking combat, wielding bows, arrows, or swords (available at an additional cost).

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The very opening of The Viking Planet was an event steeped in historical resonance. A ceremonial sword, named 'Augvaldsbaune' in honor of a semi-legendary Viking king, was delivered to Oslo by horseback from Avaldsnes, the historic seat of King Harald Fairhair. This symbolic journey underscored the museum's dedication to its heritage.

The museum is designed to be universally welcoming, with its exhibitions and content available in an impressive twelve languages, ensuring that visitors from across the globe can fully engage with the stories. While most of the museum is suitable for all ages, the VR experiences are specifically recommended for individuals aged twelve and older, partly due to the realistic depictions of Viking battles and also to ensure a proper fit for the VR headsets. As a fun, interactive souvenir, visitors can even capture a digital photo of themselves adorned in Viking attire. The aim is to make Viking history accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to The Viking Planet typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore its diverse offerings without feeling rushed. The experience is highly interactive, balancing informative content with engaging technological displays, making it an ideal destination for families with children aged seven and up, as well as first-time visitors to Oslo keen on understanding Norse culture.

The museum prides itself on its accessibility, being fully wheelchair-friendly and offering amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a souvenir shop. Its prime location in central Oslo places it within easy walking distance of other significant attractions, including the Nobel Peace Center and Oslo City Hall. The staff are frequently noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a positive and enriching visitor experience. The Viking Planet provides a vibrant, modern gateway into the ancient world of the Vikings, offering a memorable adventure that educates and entertains.