Stockholm: Skansen Open Air Museum

For the most part, the museums we have visited have consisted of beautiful works of art, long lines and at times, dimly lit rooms. The Skansen Open Air Museum was not any of those things. This museum consists of zoos, aquariums, farm animals, music, traditional Swedish food, historical villages and beautiful costumes. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring this open air museum. I especially enjoyed seeing the historic Swedish cottages with the grass thatched roofs, the traditional Swedish dresses, the farm animals and of course, the meatballs! It was fun seeing the many families walking around the exhibits and the children learning about Swedish culture and history.

 

I believe the Skansen Open Air Museum is important both historically and culturally because it helps to preserve Sweden’s rich heritage and traditions. Skansen allows visitors to experience what it was like to live in Sweden before the modern amenities it has today. You can walk around and experience the historical farms, cottages and churches, with original buildings and tools. The museum offers visitors the chance to experience Swedish life from different time periods. People can come and learn about Swedish crafts, customs, and wildlife. I love that visitors of all ages can enjoy this museum. 

 

The Skansen Open Air Museum significantly contributes to Stockholm's status as a cultural capital by providing an immersive experience into Sweden's cultural heritage. As one of the world's most amazing open-air museums, it attracts international visitors and is an example of Stockholm's commitment to preserving and celebrating history. Skansen's collection of historical buildings, live demonstrations of traditional crafts, and seasonal festivals offers visitors a cultural experience that they don’t get from a traditional museum. It is an example of how Stockholm holds their traditions and history as something of great importance to them and also a point of pride that the people of Sweden want to share with the world.