Viking tombs in Tønsberg

In Tønsberg, you can discover traces of Viking Age burial traditions at two different locations. Archaeological excavations beneath the site of Tønsberg and Færder Library revealed graves from the 9th and 10th centuries, while Viking Age burial mounds can still be seen at Slagen Church. Together, these sites offer a glimpse into the lives and burial customs of the people who lived here before medieval Tønsberg developed.

Viking burials beneath Tønsberg Library
During archaeological excavations between 1987 and 1991, several Viking Age graves were discovered on the site of today's Tønsberg and Færder Library. Among the discoveries were two boat burials, now marked in the floor of the library's lower level. One of the graves contained a man buried with weapons, blacksmith's tools and a dog. These finds offer insights into craftsmanship, burial traditions and Viking Age society more than a thousand years ago. The library stands on the site of the medieval St Olav's Monastery. Remains of the monastery can also be seen in the lower level. Across the street, visit the ruins of Olav's Church, the remains of Norway's only securely documented medieval round church.

Burial mounds at Slagen Church
At Slagen Church, northeast of central Tønsberg, several burial mounds believed to date from the Viking Age are still visible. The mounds are located within parts of the churchyard and show that the site was used for burials long before the Christian church was established here. The current church was built after the previous building was destroyed by fire in 1898. Nearby lies the Oseberg Mound, where the famous Oseberg ship and the remains of two women were discovered during excavations in 1904.

Discover more Viking heritage
Continue your journey at Vikingodden by the harbour in Tønsberg. Here you can see Saga Oseberg, an archaeological reconstruction of the famous Viking ship, when it is moored at the quay. At the Slottsfjells Museum, you can explore Viking Age history and see the preserved Klåstad ship.
For more historical sites throughout the region, follow the Viking Trail through Vestfold.

Practical information
The Viking burial sites are found at two separate locations: Tønsberg and Færder Library: Storgaten 16, Tønsberg. The boat burial locations are marked in the lower level and can be viewed when this part of the library is accessible to visitors. Slagen Church: Eikveien 20, 3123 Tønsberg. The burial mounds are outdoors within parts of the churchyard.

The library has its own opening hours. At Slagen Church, please respect the active cemetery and any religious services or ceremonies taking place. Follow established paths and avoid disturbing the ancient burial mounds.