Museum of Ethnography – Global Cultures & Heritage in Stockholm

Museum of Ethnography: Exploring Global Cultures in Stockholm

Tucked away in the leafy surroundings of Stockholm’s Museum Park near Djurgården, the Museum of Ethnography (Etnografiska museet) opens a window to the world. Housing more than 220,000 artifacts from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, it is one of Europe’s foremost destinations for understanding cultural heritage and diversity.

Exterior view of the Ethnographic Museum in Stockholm. Photo: Holger Ellgaard (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Open storage at the Museum of Ethnography in Stockholm (Etnografiska Museet). Photo: Arild Vågen. (CC BY-SA 3.0)

🌐 Collections that span the globe

Step into galleries filled with textiles, ceramics, musical instruments, weapons, ritual objects, and traditional garments. Each piece is paired with photographs, films, and archival material that bring its story to life—transforming artifacts into vivid lessons about the communities and traditions they represent.

🧭 From exploration to reflection

Sweden’s long history of exploration and collecting shaped this remarkable museum. What began as 17th-century cabinets of curiosity has grown into one of Europe’s largest ethnographic archives. In the interactive Magasinet gallery, more than 6,000 objects are displayed in open storage, inviting visitors to browse and discover in a hands-on way.

Interior view of the Etnografiska museet, Stockholm, Sweden. Photo: Daderot. (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Tools, Ainu people, Japan. Exhibit in the Etnografiska museet, Stockholm, Sweden. Photo: Daderot. (CC 1)

Two stone figures from Costa Rica, at the Ethnographic Museum in Stockholm. Photo: Magnus J (CC BY-SA 4.0)

🤝 Dialogue, food, and community

Beyond its galleries, the Museum of Ethnography fosters dialogue on identity, heritage, and global connections. Workshops, lectures, and tours encourage reflection and exchange. After exploring, visitors can enjoy Matmekka, the in-house restaurant that serves globally inspired dishes crafted from organic, locally sourced ingredients—a perfect blend of world flavors and Swedish sustainability.

🌍 Stories across continents
Hidden among the trees of Gärdet, the Museum of Ethnography reflects humanity’s shared story. From 18th-century expeditions to today’s debates on colonial legacies and cultural identity, its collections invite visitors to look at the world through multiple lenses.

🔍 Always changing, always relevant

Through rotating exhibitions, artist collaborations, and international partnerships, the museum continually reinterprets its collection. Digital projects and immersive installations ensure that both history and present-day voices are part of the experience.

📍 Plan your visit

The Museum of Ethnography is part of Stockholm’s cultural hub near Djurgården, making it easy to combine with nearby highlights:

🔬 Museum of Science and Technology – Interactive science, AI, and innovation exhibits.
⚓ National Maritime Museum – Explore Sweden’s naval history and maritime heritage.
🏡 Skansen Open-Air Museum – Historic houses, Nordic animals, and Swedish traditions.
🚢 Vasa Museum – Home to the world-famous 17th-century warship.

Whether you’re curious about global traditions or seeking an inspiring cultural outing in Stockholm, the Museum of Ethnography offers a thoughtful and engaging look at humanity’s interconnected heritage.