Leprosy Museum (Lepramuseet)

Overview

The Leprosy Museum (Lepramuseet) occupies the former St. George's Hospital, where Norwegian physician Gerhard Henrik Armauer Hansen identified the bacterium that causes leprosy in 1873. It is the only museum in Northern Europe dedicated to the history of leprosy.

Highlights

• Ward rooms: Preserved dormitories showing conditions in which patients lived.
• Hansen's discovery: Exhibits documenting the breakthrough identification of Mycobacterium leprae.
• Chapel: A small hospital chapel with original wooden furnishings.

History

St. George's Hospital was founded in the 15th century and functioned as a leprosy hospital until 1946, when the last patients were transferred. Bergen was a global epicentre of leprosy research, and Hansen's discovery here in 1873 revolutionised understanding of infectious disease.

Visitor Tips

• Niche but fascinating: Appeals to medical-history enthusiasts; one of Bergen's most unusual museums.
• Limited hours: Open only during summer (typically mid-May to August).
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.