The National Museum of Denmark is the largest museum of cultural history in Denmark. It is situated in Copenhagen and is one of the oldest museums in the country, having been founded in 1807. It is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Danish cultural heritage, both material and non-material, from the Stone Age to the present. It houses a collection of more than 1 million artifacts, ranging from archaeological finds to contemporary art.
The museum is divided into three main areas: the prehistoric and medieval collections, the collections of the 17th to 19th centuries, and the contemporary art and design collections. The prehistoric and medieval collections include a range of artifacts from the early Stone Age through to the Viking Age. Highlights of these collections include the Sun Chariot, a bronze sculpture of a chariot from the Bronze Age; the Dannebrog, a medieval Danish flag; and the Externsteine, a set of five carved stones from the Iron Age.
The collections of the 17th to 19th centuries contain a range of furniture, textiles, and other decorative arts from the Baroque and Rococo periods, as well as the Neoclassical and Biedermeier styles. Items on display include furniture made by the renowned cabinetmaker Jacob Kjær, a range of porcelain from the Royal Copenhagen factory, and a variety of historic textiles.
The contemporary art and design collections contain works from the 20th and 21st centuries. These collections include a range of modern and contemporary art, including works by artists such as Asger Jorn, Per Kirkeby, and Olafur Eliasson. The museum also has a collection of Danish design, which includes furniture, textiles, and glassware from the 1950s and 60s.
The National Museum of Denmark also has a range of interactive displays and activities for visitors. The museum’s main exhibition space is the ‘Dinosaurs and Early Man’ gallery, which takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of life on Earth. Other activities include a range of interactive displays about the history of Denmark, a virtual tour of a Viking ship, and a range of hands-on activities for children.
The National Museum of Denmark is a great place to visit for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Denmark. With its wide range of artifacts and interactive activities, the museum provides an engaging and informative experience for all ages.