We had a couple of hours to spend in Vardø and this was definitely a highlight of our time here. The long stylised building that houses the memorial is striking from a distance, but becomes even more so once you enter. The candles and information displayed inside is thought provoking and atmospheric, shedding light on an often overlooked part of history. The victims of the witch trials and their lives are memorialised and given centre state, which is much more touching than the commercialism that surrounds similar events in other parts of the world. The candles and dim light within the memorial works well and the secondary installation of a burning chair surrounded by mirrors also serves as a poignant reminder of this tragedy. Well worth a visit.

In the town of Vardø, a poignant monument stands as a tribute to all those ensnared by the shackles of witchcraft accusations. The design hails from the esteemed Swiss studio of Peter Zumthor, renowned the world over. I found myself there on a mist-laden day in the heart of July. At first glance, the monument's structure evokes thoughts of the fish-drying racks that dot the northern reaches of Norway. A lengthy gangway leads you to the entrance of this architectural testament. What lies within left an indelible impression on me. However, I refrain from delving into detail, for I believe such an encounter ought to be experienced firsthand. As you emerge from the exit, a construction to the left caught my eye—an installation that, to my perception, conjured an image of a pyre, surrounded by onlookers. The grand mirrors poetically mirror the grim reality that the pyre loomed for the many back then. With society's hardening and the displacement of countless refugees, an unsettling parallel to our present comes into view all too clearly. The accusation and marginalization of vulnerable minorities stubarnly persist in our contemporary landscape. Another facet of this monument's beauty lies in its proximity to a tiny white church, seemingly positioned as an indictment against the pivotal role the church played in perpetuating the witch hunts. It made me to reflect upon many layers of history and meaning.

This place is so important, everyone should go here at least once in their life. It was a haunting, sad, angry, intense, and memorable experience. I won't tell too much to spoil the experience and won't share any photos, you need to see for yourself. But the art there, and the memorial itself is so powerful. This was not a war on "witches", it was a war on women and indigenous people in panic trials. "Hun gjennomgikk vannprøven, og sank som en dupp."

A stunning building from the outside. Get deeply touched by history from the inside. At the entrance their are English guidebooks which has all texts translated. And if this hasn't you moved enough then side the dark square building at the exit on the left. Unbelievable what was done in courts all over Europe. Open 24/7.