Antiquities and Viking Age Section

Section 1814–1905

The 1814–1905 section traces Norwegian military history from the Treaty of Kiel, which ceded Norway to Sweden, through to the peaceful dissolution of that union in 1905. Using officers' uniforms, standards and swords, the gallery illustrates Norway's nation-building process during this period of political, social and technical transformation. You can see what to visit to understand how military heritage shaped modern Norwegian identity during these decisive decades.

Section 1905–1940

The 1905–1940 section charts Norwegian military history from the dissolution of the union with Sweden in 1905 through to the German occupation in 1940, encompassing the First World War era. This gallery forms one of six chronologically organised departments within the museum, offering insight into a formative period in Norway's modern history and defence.

Section 1940–1945 (Land Battles)

The 1940–1945 section focuses on major land battles fought on Norwegian soil during the Second World War. It covers key campaigns including the Battle of Narvik, the fighting in Gudbrandsdalen, and sabotage operations at Rjukan. Through these pivotal episodes, the section documents Norwegian resistance efforts and the involvement of Allied forces—British, French and Polish—against German occupation. What to see here provides essential context for understanding Norway's wartime experience.

Section 1940–1945 (Naval Battles)

The 1940–1945 section at the Forsvarsmuseet charts Germany's invasion of Norway and its aftermath, with particular focus on the naval battles that opened the conflict. The centrepiece is the sinking of the German cruiser Blücher in Oslo Fjord, a pivotal moment that fundamentally altered the course of the war in Norway. What to see includes detailed accounts of these crucial early engagements and their strategic importance.

Sección Guerra Fría y Posguerra

The Cold War and Post-War Section is the final chronological department at Forsvarsmuseet, covering Norwegian military history from 1945 to the present day. It documents Norway's integration into NATO, civil defence measures during the Cold War, and the country's involvement in international peacekeeping operations in regions including the Balkans and Afghanistan. What to see here traces the development of modern Norwegian armed forces through this pivotal period.

International Operations Section

The International Operations Section is a thematic gallery at the Forsvarsmuseet that chronicles Norway's military contributions and peacekeeping missions abroad. The exhibits document Norwegian involvement in the Balkans and Afghanistan, providing insight into the country's international defence role. This section offers a detailed look at what to see regarding Norway's overseas military operations and humanitarian interventions across these significant regions.

Krigskorset Gallery

The Krigskorset Gallery in Oslo focuses on Norway's highest military decoration, the Krigskorset or War Cross. The gallery tells the remarkable stories of heroism and sacrifice behind those who received this prestigious honour. It represents one of the museum's most distinctive and compelling exhibitions, offering visitors genuine insight into Norway's military heritage and the individuals recognised for exceptional bravery.

Temporary Exhibitions Hall

The Forsvarsmuseet's Temporary Exhibitions Gallery presents regularly rotating displays exploring contemporary issues and specific aspects of Norwegian military history. The exhibitions examine subjects such as the ethics of warfare, gender roles within the armed forces, and technological advances in defence. What to see here changes periodically, offering visitors fresh perspectives on Norway's military heritage and modern defence challenges.