Norway's largest Viking ship began its historic relocation on Wednesday. The Gokstad ship traveled from the old Viking Ship House to the new Museum of the Viking Age at Bygdøy in Oslo.
Workers built a special steel box around the 1,135-year-old vessel. A custom crane carefully lifted the container to roof level. The operation proceeded at an extremely slow pace toward the new museum location.
This delicate process mirrors the September relocation of the Oseberg ship. That marked its first movement in a century.
The Gokstad ship presents greater challenges due to its larger size and fragile condition. Museum officials handle Norway's Viking treasures with extreme caution during these complex operations.
The new Museum of the Viking Age plans to open its doors to visitors in 2027. This ambitious relocation project demonstrates Norway's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, though moving ancient artifacts always carries inherent risks that keep conservators holding their breath.