Leprosy Museum St. Jørgen's Hospital — Attraction in Bergen

Leprosy Museum St. Jørgens Hospital

About science and human dignity. An authentic hospital environment filled with strong stories - one of the most unique experiences in Bergen.

The leprosy museum St. Jørgen's hospital is a distinctive cultural monument. If you visit the museum, you will not be able to avoid imagining what life must have been like for the many people who over several centuries have lived parts of their lives here. At the same time, you will be able to learn more about the disease leprosy and its spread in Norway, and about how a large-scale investment in research and health work put Bergen on the world map. You can join a guided tour or go on your own in the permanent exhibition in the main building.

A unique cultural monument that makes an impression

St. Jørgen Hospital has had its place in the cityscape since the early 15th century, but after several major city fires there is nothing left of the medieval hospital. The buildings that stand here today are all listed and form a well-preserved hospital environment from the 18th century. The church and the main building with bedrooms and kitchen have largely remained unchanged since the last two residents died in 1946, after having lived here for over 50 years. Perhaps, like many of the museum's former guests, you will find that walking around the now empty rooms is a gripping and thought-provoking experience.

From oblivion to fame

The history of leprosy in Norway is probably in many ways a little-known part of our national history, but at the same time many visitors from all over the world find their way to the museum. Both local and international guests are touched by the many individual destinies that are brought out of oblivion through printed sources and archive material. The hospital's archives are part of the Leprosy Archives in Bergen, which are on UNESCO's Memory of the World programme. If you don't already know, you will discover that the museum also conveys a famous scientific story.

A medical breakthrough

In 1873, the Bergen doctor Gerhard Armauer identified Hansen's leprosy bacillus. This represented an international breakthrough, not only for leprosy research, but in medicine in general. Discovery of the leprosy bacillus has been able to enjoy international fame for well over 100 years and even today Hansen is one of the most famous Norwegians in the wider world. Did you know that in many countries the disease is referred to as Hansen's disease instead of leprosy?

Illness and stigmatization

The story of leprosy is not only about medicine and science, but also about social conditions and social relations. Leprosy is a disease that, right from the Middle Ages until today, has had major consequences for those who have been affected, and prejudice and stigmatization are still a challenge in countries where the disease is still widespread.

Everything you didn't know you wanted to know or reflect on

Do you think that a visit to the Leprosy Museum is only for the specially interested? It is perhaps true that the story of St. Jørgen's Hospital and of leprosy in Norway can be said to be a narrow and almost exotic part of our relatively recent past, but at the same time it is a rich and exciting story that goes straight to the core of the development features in Norwegian society up to and including the 19th century. Are you interested in science and research, ethics and human rights, the relationship between the individual and society, isolation or stigma? Do you like to see new connections and delve into the many nuances of history? Then this museum is perfect for you!

Tour or go on your own?

You can choose whether you want to go on your own or book a place on a guided tour. In any case, we always greatly appreciate conversations and discussions with interested and engaged visitors.

For the Science and Human Dignity tour, you can buy tickets here

The tours last about 45 minutes and usually also include entrance to St....

I did come into this as both a healthcare worker and with a passion for medical history, but as long as you're willing to do a bit of reading (or time your stop for a tour) I think this museum would touch any visitor regardless of background. The idea of a leprosy institution is so removed from our modern life it's stunning to imagine sleeping three to a room or being isolated from your family for the rest of your life. But this museum presents it beautifully, telling you the stories of the residents as you walk through the hospital, of the discovery of the disease and of the ethics around the eradication of it in Norway in a way that still matters even with our improved medical science. The staff were very informative, friendly, and passionate, they were fantastic to talk to. And the grounds themselves were lovely and peaceful to walk in, and has the oldest wooden church in bergen (put on the provided shoe covers before walking in!). The herb garden was intriguing though lacking in info as I wish there was better documentation on what the herbs were being used for. The section on Hansen and Kari was genuinely beautifully presented, and I loved the film with voices of people today talking about chronic illness and leprosy and the stigma around illnesses, whether it's from fear of infection or some idea of it being a punishment. Wonderful museum, very unique and definitely worth seeing...

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the Leprosy Museum, having no real passion about medicine or knowledge about Leprosy, but it turned out to be one of the most powerful and memorable experiences of my time in Bergen. The museum is set in the old St. Jørgen’s Hospital, and the preserved wooden buildings and patient rooms offer an incredibly atmospheric and authentic glimpse into a difficult period of history.

I took the guided tour and genuinely cannot recommend it highly enough. I don’t remember the guide’s name, but she was exceptional - one of the best tour guides I’ve ever had anywhere. She was clearly deeply passionate about her work, and her ability to explain the history with empathy, knowledge, and detail brought everything to life. She handled every question thoughtfully and added so much depth and humanity to the experience. The small extra cost for the tour is absolutely worth it.

What really stood out was the museum’s focus on the personal side of the history - the isolation, stigma, and lived experience of those who were affected by leprosy. It’s not a high-tech museum, but that adds to its quiet power. It’s a place that stays with you.

If you’re in Bergen and want a meaningful, thought provoking experience, this is one not to miss - especially...