Dalarnas Museum

In the heart of Falun, nestled beside the serene Faluån river, lies a treasure trove of cultural heritage and history – the Dalarnas Museum. Known locally as Dalarnas museum, this captivating institution offers an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of Dalarna's past, from its ancient roots to its vibrant contemporary culture.

The Origins and Evolution of Dalarnas Museum

The story of Dalarnas Museum begins in 1862 with the founding of Dalarnas Fornminnesförening, the sixth antiquities society in Sweden. During a period marked by industrialization, urbanization, and increased access to education, the society embarked on a mission to collect and preserve cultural artifacts and archival materials for future generations. The first museum building, acquired in 1883, was an old gymnasium that still stands at the corner of Kristinegatan and Promenaden.

In 1892, the museum was inaugurated as Dala Fornsal. It later moved to the Wallmanska villa in 1926, only to be relocated again in the mid-1950s when the villa was demolished. The collections were then stored in various locations around the city until 1955, when the county antiquarian Ingemar Tunander moved into the Art Hall while awaiting a permanent solution for the museum.

The current museum building, designed by architect Hakon Ahlberg, opened its doors on May 3, 1962. Its design, reminiscent of a medieval castle, features walls built in a monk bond pattern. The building is connected to the Falu Art Hall, also designed by Ahlberg in 1935, which faces Medborgarplatsen and is a listed building. The sculpture above the entrance was created by Eric Grate. In 1984, an extension designed by architect Jack Hansson linked the original museum building with an adjacent merchant's house along Stigaregatan, adding new offices, a lecture hall, and a children's workshop.

Collections and Exhibitions

Dalarnas Museum boasts an impressive collection of approximately 150,000 objects, making it one of Sweden's largest repositories of cultural artifacts. The museum's collections include extensive displays of traditional Dalarna paintings, dalahorses, parish costumes, and graphics, particularly from the Falugrafikerna group. Since 2019, these collections have been housed in a 4,800-square-meter storage facility originally built for the pharmacy.

The museum's digital collections are accessible through DigitaltMuseum, with around 30,000 objects available online as of 2023. Additionally, the collections can be explored via the Swedish National Heritage Board's search service Kringla and Europeana.

The permanent exhibitions at Dalarnas Museum provide a comprehensive overview of the region's cultural history. Highlights include displays on costume and textiles, Dalarna paintings, dalahorses, and the World Heritage city and industrial landscape. Other permanent features include Dala art, Hagström guitars, and the Graphics Hall. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on various themes, ensuring there is always something new to discover.

Selma Lagerlöf Room

One of the museum's most cherished exhibits is the Selma Lagerlöf Room, which recreates the renowned author's library and workspace from 1910. Lagerlöf lived in various locations in Falun for ten years, and the room contains furnishings from her house on Villavägen, which has since been demolished. It was during her time in Falun that Lagerlöf wrote some of her most famous works, including A Manor House Tale, the Jerusalem books, and The Wonderful Adventures of Nils. In 2011, a statue by Falun artist Arvid Backlund depicting a seated Selma Lagerlöf was erected by the Faluån river.

Engaging Activities and Resources

Dalarnas Museum is not just a place to view artifacts; it is a vibrant hub of cultural activity. The museum offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and guided tours that cater to visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in traditional crafts, local history, or contemporary art, there is something to pique your interest.

The museum's restaurant, Kopparhatten, provides a delightful spot to relax and enjoy a meal with a view of the Faluån river. The on-site cinema, Falan, and the old fire station add to the museum's unique charm and make it a multifaceted destination.

Visitor Information

Dalarnas Museum is supported by Region Dalarna, the Swedish Arts Council, and the Municipality of Falun, ensuring that admission is free for all visitors. In 2022, the museum welcomed 42,411 visitors, a testament to its enduring appeal and significance.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the cultural heritage of Dalarna, Dalarnas Museum offers an enriching and enjoyable experience. Its blend of historical artifacts, engaging exhibitions, and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Falun.

So, next time you find yourself in this picturesque part of Sweden, be sure to step into Dalarnas Museum and embark on a journey through the fascinating history and culture of Dalarna. You won't be disappointed!