2000 km with Viking ship on trailer for Lofotr Chieftain

18 August 2026

Photo: Erik Lingjærde / Nordkappfoto

Dissemination of cultural heritage often reaches its greatest potential through meaningful collaborations. This became clear recently when Terje Bøe, chieftain and operations manager at Lofotr Viking Museum at Borg, traveled to Gjesvær to participate in the Finnmark Viking Age Festival.

The festival was organized by the The Museums of Coastal Culture and Reconstruction in Finnmark IMC, and served as a living arena for exploring the region’s history. With a particular focus on the dramatic story of when Tore Hund killed Karle. The event was also part of the larger national celebration Norway for 1000 years.

Development and cooperation across regions

Terje has been closely involved in the development of the festival ever since the idea was first conceived about five years ago. As the festival’s chieftain, he contributed with far more than just advice. To ensure an authentic and engaging experience for the audience, he transported a Viking ship on a trailer all the way from Lofoten to Gjesvær.

Throughout the festival, he shared his extensive knowledge through speeches and storytelling. And in this way helped to connect the audience more closely to our common history. He also brought a whole pig north from Lofoten, which was served during the traditional feast that was a central part of the festival program.

Lofoten well represented

The presence from our region was further strengthened by Lofoten Vikinglag. Who traveled north to establish an authentic Viking camp and arrange various activities with a historical basis. Through their dedication and craftsmanship, the audience got to experience practical aspects of everyday life in the Viking Age.

It is safe to say that Lofoten’s cultural heritage environment was very well represented in Finnmark.

The way forward: Together on storytelling

The collaboration with the Museums for Coastal Culture and Reconstruction in Finnmark IKS has been both very successful and rewarding. When cultural institutions work together, we can pool our resources, share regional expertise and create even richer experiences for audiences.

We look forward to continuing this good collaboration in the future, and to supporting each other in our common mission to preserve and convey Northern Norway’s fascinating history in the best possible and accessible way.