National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is the country's most important cultural institution. Dedicated to Danish history and culture, the museum covers the nation's entire story from humble beginnings to the current day. Most items on exhibit at the museum come from the private collection of former King Frederick, who housed many artifacts in his private residence in the 17th century.

Several stand out among the most valuable items on display at the National Museum, such as the Trunholm sun chariot, jewelry from Viking times, and the famous Egtved girl. One of the most prized items on display was the golden Viking horns, tragically stolen in 1802. Later, the piece was replaced with an exact, less valuable replica.

The museum doesn't just tell the story of Copenhagen and Denmark either. At this immense cultural institution, visitors can visit other cultures like Polynesia, the Arctic, and Japanese cultures through various other exhibits.

The National Museum Collection

The extensive collection at the National Museum of Denmark is divided into several periods in history:

• Danish Prehistory: On view are items used during the Bronze Age, jewelry, pottery, weapons, and many other key instruments from the prehistoric era. Additionally, this exhibit features various prehistoric animal bones.
• The Middle Ages and Danish Renaissance: In the medieval centuries, the Vikings stood as the predominant cultural force in Denmark. On display at the National Gallery are preserved armor, weapons, and other equipment often used by these seafaring villages and conquerors.
• Stories of Denmark: this exhibit is dedicated to Christianity's history in Denmark, as shown through a large map showcasing the country's great power via its many colonies appearing on the map and recreations of royal quarters decorated as they were in the 18th century.
• Royal collection of coins and medals: a vast collection of coins used throughout Danish history, though the exhibition is temporarily closed due to maintenance.
• Antiquities of the Classical World and the Near East: the biggest point of interest in this exhibit is the Egyptian mummies on display, but be sure to check out the ancient scripts carved into rock pieces and Roman mosaics on exhibit as well.
• Ethnography collection: through scenic recreations, this collection allows the visitor to travel back to ancient civilizations for a first-hand look into their traditions, culture, and customs.