If you’re traveling in southwest Norway, and appreciate folk traditions, the Hardanger Folkemuseum is a must-see.


After my first visit, I knew I had to get my protagonist Chloe Ellefson there.
Most of Fiddling With Fate, the 10th Chloe mystery, takes pace in Hardanger, and the museum is prominently featured.
The region is famous for its folk costumes and textiles. The museum’s collection is stunning.





Music is another aspect of local culture. Hardanger fiddles, which have also come to represent the nation, are the region’s most famous instrument.

Another instrument, the Psalmodikon, has one string and is played with a bow. They were often used in the 1800s to accompany hymns, or to teach songs in school.

Other folk traditions are preserved and displayed at the museum as well, such as these pieces carved by Lars Trondson Kinsarvik.

The Hardanger Folkemuseum is a gem. After exploring the traditional exhibits, be sure to tour the open air division. (More on that next time.)
And if you’re like me, you may want to linger on the grounds, soaking in the landscape and thinking about people long gone…but not forgotten.

Tags: Fiddling With Fate, Hardanger Bunads, Hardanger Fiddle, Hardanger Folk Museum
September 19, 2019 at 5:46 pm |
I finished reading the book and learned so much, my great grandmother was Norwegian and I cant help but wonder what her life was like. Thank you for a wonderful story and I await the next book.
September 19, 2019 at 6:33 pm |
Ellen, I’m so glad the book helped you think about your great grandmother’s life! It’s fun to imagine, isn’t it?
September 20, 2019 at 10:06 am |
Where is this museum?
September 20, 2019 at 1:08 pm |
Inga, it’s in the village of Utne, in Hordaland County. If you follow this link and scroll down you’ll find a map. https://hardangerogvossmuseum.no/en/
September 20, 2019 at 12:50 pm |
Passing along to a friend who visited Norway last year. Want to know whether she went the museum. If not, she truly missed something.
September 20, 2019 at 1:09 pm |
Thanks, Liz. As Mr. Ernst says of visiting special places like Norway, You always need a reason to go back.