Fredrikstad museum

Fredrikstad Museum is the museum of the town's and Østfold county's history. Since 2003 it has occupied Tøihuset, a former military storehouse in the heart of Gamlebyen, the fortified Old Town of Fredrikstad. It is part of Østfoldmuseene and combines three exhibitions: a "history bar" telling the town's story, a chronological display of objects, and a large exhibition on the Second World War.

Where is Fredrikstad Museum?

The museum stands in Gamlebyen, the Old Town on the east bank of the Glomma river. The entrance is on Tøihusgaten (number 41). The town was founded in 1567 by the Danish king Frederik II and is surrounded by star-shaped earthworks and a moat. It is one of the best-preserved fortified towns in northern Europe, so even the walk to the museum is a tour of historic streets.

What is the Tøihuset building?

Tøihuset, a former arsenal and military store, was built in 1773–1775. At roughly 4,000 m² it was once the largest building in Norway. The armed forces moved out in 2002 and the museum moved in a year later. The museum itself is much older, founded in 1903. Today it holds the largest part of the building, facing Tøihusgaten.

What can you see inside?

Bar 1567. On the ground floor, a "history bar" has a guide acting as bartender who serves up Fredrikstad's past in an unusual way. The story follows people from every level of society who left their mark on the town. Presentations use multimedia and run in both Norwegian and English.

The chronological exhibition. On the second floor, objects from the town's long history are arranged in time order, linked by texts about the people who lived here.

Operation Polar Bear. The newest exhibition, "Østfold i krig 1939–45 – Operasjon Polar Bear", covers more than 500 square metres. It portrays the occupation, everyday life and resistance in Østfold. You will see Norwegian and German weapons and uniforms and hear radio broadcasts, and some objects have never been shown publicly before.

There is also a small museum shop in the building.

Frequently asked questions

How much time should I plan? With three exhibitions, allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours, longer if you are interested in WWII history.

Is it suitable if I do not speak Norwegian? Yes. The Bar 1567 presentations are also given in English.

Is it a good first stop in Gamlebyen? Yes. The museum gives the historical background that makes the layout of the ramparts, gates and streets easier to understand.

Where do I check opening hours and prices? The official Østfoldmuseene website and Visit Fredrikstad & Hvaler publish current hours and tickets.

Who is it for?

History lovers, families looking for an interactive way to hear the story, and travellers who want to understand how a sixteenth-century fortress became a modern town. It pairs well with a walk along the ramparts and a ferry crossing over the Glomma to the newer part of Fredrikstad.