From shipwreck to treasure sensation:
A grand trading expedition, a dramatic shipwreck, and an incredible treasure. Join us on a guided journey back in time, with engaging storytelling in Opplev Runde's authentic treasure exhibition.
In 1725, the Dutch merchant ship Akerendam was wrecked off the coast of Runde, carrying over 500 kilograms of gold and silver coins, as well as many other valuables. The treasure lay hidden on the seabed for 250 years before it was discovered by three divers in 1972 – completely by chance. The find was significant, both in scale and historical value, and marked an important chapter in Norwegian cultural heritage.
* Unique exhibits: Study authentic coins, valuable artifacts, and even a piece of wood from the wreck – a rare treasure after 250 years on the seabed.
* Dramatic stories: Learn about life on board the Akerendam, how the storm blew the ship off course, and how pirates changed travel routes in the 1700s.
* Local folklore: Hear about how the people of Runde grew up with stories of a sunken treasure.
* Beautiful craftsmanship: See the impressive model of the Akerendam, built by lighthouse keeper Robert Pareliussen, and learn about shipbuilding and navigation in the 1700s.
* Controversial details: Hear how the discovery sparked a debate about ownership, finder's fees, and cultural heritage, and how the Runde Treasure influenced Norwegian law.
In 1725, the Dutch merchant ship Akerendam was wrecked off the coast of Runde, carrying over 500 kilograms of gold and silver coins, as well as many other valuables. The treasure lay hidden on the seabed for 250 years before it was discovered by three divers in 1972 – completely by chance. The find was significant, both in scale and historical value, and marked an important chapter in Norwegian cultural heritage.
In 1725, the Dutch merchant ship Akerendam was wrecked off the coast of Runde, carrying over 500 kilograms of gold and silver coins, as well as many other valuables. The treasure lay hidden on the seabed for 250 years before it was discovered by three divers in 1972 – completely by chance. The find was significant, both in scale and historical value, and marked an important chapter in Norwegian cultural heritage.
In 1725, the Dutch merchant ship Akerendam was wrecked off the coast of Runde, carrying a treasure that included over 500 kilograms of gold and silver coins. The treasure lay hidden on the seabed for 250 years before it was discovered by divers in 1972 – completely by chance. The find was significant, both in scale and historical value, and marks an important chapter in Norwegian cultural heritage.
* Unique exhibition items: Study authentic coins, valuable artifacts, and even a piece of wood from the wreck – a rare treasure after 250 years on the seabed.
* Dramatic stories: Learn about life on board the Akerendam, how the storm blew the ship off course, and how pirates changed shipping routes in the 1700s.
* Local folklore: Hear about how the people of Runde grew up with stories of a sunken treasure, and how it was slowly "forgotten" – before it resurfaced as one of the greatest treasure finds ever.
* Beautiful craftsmanship: See the impressive ship model of the Akerendam, built by lighthouse keeper Robert Pareliussen, and learn about 18th-century shipbuilding and navigation.
* Controversial details: Get to know the discovery that sparked the debate over ownership, finder's fees, and cultural heritage, and how the Runde Treasure influenced Norwegian law.
* Unique exhibition items: Study authentic coins, valuable artifacts, and even a piece of wood from the wreck – a rare treasure after 250 years on the seabed.
* Dramatic stories: Learn about life on board the Akerendam, how the storm blew the ship off course, and how pirates changed shipping routes in the 1700s.
* Local folklore: Hear about how the people of Runde grew up with stories of a sunken treasure.
* Beautiful craftsmanship: See the impressive ship model of the Akerendam, built by lighthouse keeper Robert Pareliussen, and learn about 18th-century shipbuilding and navigation.
* Controversial details: Get to know the discovery that sparked the debate over ownership, finder's fees, and cultural heritage, and how the Runde Treasure influenced Norwegian law.
Note: An educational tour of our special bird exhibition is included
in the ticket!
Click here to read about the bird exhibition
Through vivid storytelling, our knowledgeable guides will take you on an exciting journey through the exhibition and history. This is an experience suitable for all ages.
See the exclusive photos and read the personal and exciting story of the man who documented the sensational treasure discovery in 1977!
Click here to read about the bird exhibition.
Note: An educational tour of our special bird exhibition is included in the ticket!
