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Museum · Roskilde, Zelândia
Museu dos Navios Vikings (Vikingeskibsmuseet)
On the fjord shore, the five ships sunk around 1070 to protect Roskilde, recovered in 1962, and the shipyard where replicas are built using Viking techniques. In summer there are rowing trips on the fjord.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museu dos Navios Vikings (Vikingeskibsmuseet)
Around 1070, the inhabitants of Roskilde sank five ships in the Skuldelev channel, north of the town, to block the fjord passage and prevent attacks by sea. The ships remained on the bottom for almost 900 years until they were excavated in 1962. The museum, on the water's edge, opened in 1969 to display them.
In the Viking Ships Hall, the five vessels, reconstructed from thousands of pieces of wood, show the variety of the Viking fleet: a long, narrow warship, a fishing boat, an ocean-going cargo ship, a coastal trader and a smaller warship. The hall's large windows look out over the fjord. Panels explain how the ships were built, used and sunk.
On the museum island (Museumsøen), linked by a bridge, is the shipyard where carpenters build replicas with period tools and techniques, in full view of the public. The museum's harbour houses about 40 traditional boats, and in summer visitors can go out on the fjord in Viking-style boats, helping to row and hoist the sail. During excavations to expand the shipyard, nine more medieval ships were found — the Roskilde Ships.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1½ to 2 hours; add 1 hour for the boat trip on the fjord.
Best time
From June to August, when boat trips usually operate and the shipyard is busier. Check the days and book the trip on arrival. The Ships Hall is open year-round.
How to get there
A 20-minute walk from Roskilde station, down through the cathedral park to the harbour. There is a city bus from the station to the fjord shore.
Tip
Take the boat trip if the weather allows: it's the best way to understand how they navigated. Bring a jacket, because the fjord wind is cold even in summer. Afterwards, walk around Roskilde's harbour.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museu dos Navios Vikings (Vikingeskibsmuseet)
Are the ships original?
Yes, the five vessels displayed in the hall are the original Skuldelev ships, sunk around 1070 and reconstructed from thousands of pieces.
Can you sail in a Viking ship?
In summer, the museum usually offers fjord trips in replica boats, with visitors helping to row. Check the days and weather conditions.
Does the museum open in winter?
Yes, the ship hall is open year-round. The shipyard and the boats are more active from May to September.
How long does the visit take?
About 1.5 to 2 hours, plus an additional hour if you take the boat trip.