Dance Museum Stockholm: Where history takes the stage
Welcome to the mesmerizing world of the Dance Museum Stockholm (Dansmuseet), where the art of movement and cultural history unite. Founded in 1953 by Rolf de Maré, a visionary Swedish dance patron and grandson of Wilhelmina von Hallwyl, this unique museum celebrates the elegance and power of dance in all its forms.
Explore the global legacy of dance
With a collection of over 20,000 objects, the museum is a sanctuary for dance lovers and culture seekers. Exhibits feature:
- Stunning ballet costumes and set designs
- Historic dance attire from cultures around the world
- Photographs, posters, and stage props tracing dance history
Visitors journey through global traditions, from classical ballet to ceremonial dances, discovering the stories and artistry behind every movement.
Rolf de Maré—visionary founder and cultural patron
The Dance Museum owes its existence to Rolf de Maré (1888–1964), a Swedish art historian and dance impresario. De Maré was the founder of the avant-garde Ballets Suédois in Paris and a passionate advocate for preserving dance as an art form. His extensive collection of costumes, stage designs, and archival material laid the foundation for the museum in 1953.
Notably, de Maré was the grandson of Wilhelmina von Hallwyl, the creator of the Hallwyl Museum. This familial connection underscores the deep cultural legacy and commitment to the arts shared by the Hallwyl family—an influence that continues to shape Stockholm’s museum landscape.
A hub for research and creativity
Beyond exhibitions, the museum is a center for research and artistic collaboration. It offers:
- A specialized library and archives for dance scholarship
- Workshops and performances celebrating the cultural roots of dance
- Events and programs that connect past traditions with modern interpretations
It’s a vibrant space where dance is preserved, studied, and brought to life.
Plan your visit to the Dance Museum
Whether you’re an aspiring dancer, a researcher, or a curious traveler, the Dance Museum offers a captivating dive into the world of performing arts. Come experience the rhythm, grace, and expressive power that dance brings to cultures across the globe.
📍 Nearby attractions
Located just off Kungsträdgården, the Dance Museum is surrounded by some of Stockholm’s top cultural gems:
- 🏛️ Hallwyl Museum – A lavish palace filled with 19th-century art, antiques, and family history.
- 👑 The Royal Palace – Discover royal apartments, treasures, and ceremonial spaces.
- 🏅 Nobel Prize Museum – Explore the legacy of Nobel laureates and groundbreaking discoveries.
- 🎨 Moderna Museet – A hub of modern and contemporary masterpieces.
- 🖼️ National Museum – Sweden’s premier collection of fine art and design.
- ⛪ Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) – The city’s oldest church with Gothic beauty and royal history.
- 🌸 Kungsträdgården – A lively park with cafés, events, and famous spring cherry blossoms.
