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Museum Silkeborg Hovedgården: A Journey Through Time

Explore Denmark's past at Museum Silkeborg Hovedgården, home to the famed Tollund Man and rich historical exhibits.

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Museum Silkeborg Hovedgården, housed in Silkeborg's oldest building from 1767, offers a captivating exploration of the region's history. Its centerpiece is the Tollund Man, a remarkably preserved 2,200-year-old bog body, alongside exhibits spanning from the Stone Age to modern times.

A brief summary to Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events or temporary exhibitions that might coincide with your visit.
  • Allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the museum's extensive collections and interactive displays.
  • Combine your visit with a walk in the nearby forests to experience the natural beauty that complements the museum's historical narratives.
  • Don't miss the museum's shop, which offers unique souvenirs and books related to Danish history and culture.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the central bus station in Silkeborg, take bus number 12 towards Hovedgårdsvej. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes, with a fare of around 20 DKK. Alight at the Hovedgårdsvej stop; the museum is a short walk from there.

  • Walking

    From Silkeborg's main square, it's a pleasant 15–20-minute walk to the museum. Head towards the river, cross the main bridge, and follow signs leading to Hovedgårdsvej. Along the way, you'll pass through charming streets lined with cafes and shops.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available near the museum entrance. Be aware that parking spaces can be limited during peak hours. Parking fees are approximately 10 DKK per hour.

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Discover more about Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården

Nestled in the heart of Silkeborg, Museum Silkeborg Hovedgården stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Danish history. The museum is situated within the historic Silkeborg Hovedgård, a manor house constructed between 1767 and 1770, making it the oldest building in the city. This elegant structure provides a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive collections, which chronicle the evolution of the Silkeborg region from ancient times to the present day. The museum's most renowned exhibit is the Tollund Man, one of the world's best-preserved bog bodies. Discovered in 1950 in a nearby peat bog, this 2,200-year-old relic offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Iron Age. Visitors can marvel at the remarkable preservation of his features, providing a poignant connection to Denmark's distant past. Complementing this is the Elling Woman, another bog body from around 200 BC, found in 1938 in Bjældskovdal, approximately 10 km west of Silkeborg. Together, these exhibits offer profound insights into ancient burial practices and daily life during the Iron Age. Beyond these iconic displays, Hovedgården delves into various epochs of the region's history. Exhibits cover the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Viking Age, showcasing artifacts that narrate the story of human settlement and cultural development in the area. The museum also sheds light on the history of Silkeborg Castle and the town's emergence in the mid-19th century, illustrating the transformation from a medieval stronghold to a bustling modern town. For those interested in more recent history, the museum offers insights into local industries such as pottery and glass manufacturing during the Renaissance period. Interactive displays and engaging narratives make the museum a dynamic experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to its indoor exhibits, Museum Silkeborg extends its storytelling into the surrounding natural landscapes. Visitors can embark on guided tours that trace the footsteps of the Tollund Man, participate in activities like the Stone Age hunter's luck wheel, and learn about the history of the region's lakes and forests. These outdoor experiences provide a holistic understanding of the interplay between nature and human history in the Silkeborg area. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, Museum Silkeborg Hovedgården offers a comprehensive and immersive journey through time, making it a must-visit destination in Denmark.

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