“Meet those who worked in the mountains, in the mines and in the fields. The sea has always offered great wealth for those who knew how to harvest it – Vikings, landowners, traders and industrialists – with power and vigor”.

With these words, Museum Nord invites visitors to explore a place where stories of the sea, nature, and the people who have shaped this region come alive.

The first group of participants of our Lofoten meeting had the opportunity to visit this remarkable place, guided by Jonas, who shared fascinating stories and insights along the way.

We had the chance to visit the developing SKREI Museum — “An impressive complex dedicated to the rich life found both below and above the ocean’s surface, and to the people whose livelihoods and traditions have long been intertwined with the sea. The new building itself is breathtaking: its architecture blends beautifully into the surrounding landscape. The creators of the museum combine modern technology with a deep respect for history, creating an engaging experience that allows visitors to discover the region’s heritage while also appreciating the artistic side of the exhibitions.

We explored historic houses preserved exactly as they once were — with original furniture, everyday objects, and an atmosphere that transports visitors straight back to the 19th century. In the traditional fishermen’s cabins, cod are still hanging to dry — same method that have been passed down through generations.

At the Espolin Gallery, we discovered the work of Norwegian artist Kaare Espolin Johnson (1907–1994), whose art is deeply connected to life by and on the sea. His works reflect the challenges faced by fishermen and their close relationship with the powerful and sometimes harsh nature of the northern coast.

The Lofoten Aquarium offered a chance to observe marine life up close, with one of the highlights being the seal feeding show.

The SKREI Museum will officially open in just a few days. Already today, we can be sure that it will become a great success and will play an important role in preserving and sharing knowledge about the natural environment of Lofoten and the heritage of its inhabitants.