THE ARCHBISHOP'S PALACE MUSEUM
Trondheim, Norway
The Archbishop's Palace Museum is located next to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim and is considered one of Norway’s most important medieval complexes.
It is hard to imagine, but the Archbishop of Nidaros was once so influential that he could rival the king himself. From this palace, a vast church territory was governed, covering not only Norway but also parts of the North Atlantic.
Few people know that the palace grounds once had their own mint. Coins were struck here as early as the Middle Ages, and during excavations archaeologists discovered casting molds, craftsmen’s tools, and thousands of coin fragments.
During excavations, archaeologists also found not only luxury objects and church relics, but ordinary everyday items: shoes, dice, dishes, tools, and even household waste from medieval residents. It is fascinating to realize that many objects we now see as archaeological treasures were once simply ordinary things someone lost or threw away.
Today, the park area around the museum is a popular place to relax for both tourists and locals. People walk here, rest on the grass, spend time with family, and enjoy the atmosphere of one of Trondheim’s most historic places.