Alf Prøysen (1914-1970) grew up as a cottar's son in Ringsaker, in a rural world of small farms and hard work that would fuel everything he wrote. He became one of Norway's most beloved cultural figures: a songwriter whose melodies are still sung at every Christmas table, a storyteller who captivated the nation on radio and television, and the creator of Teskjekjerringa, the old woman who shrinks to the size of a teaspoon. Published in English as Mrs. Pepperpot, the stories have been translated into more than forty languages.
Prøysenhuset is the national cultural centre built in his honour, designed by Snøhetta architects and set in the countryside where he grew up. The exhibitions trace his path from barefoot farm boy to national icon, with original manuscripts, personal belongings, and listening stations where you can hear his distinctive voice. Next door stands Prøysenstua, the small farmhouse where he spent his childhood.
The centre is as much a living stage as a museum. Summer brings open-air concerts and theater in the amphitheatre, while the Christmas season fills the house with performances of Snekker Andersen og Julenissen, one of Norway's favourite holiday stories. Kafé Julie serves homemade food year-round, and the cafe and gift shop can be visited without a museum ticket.
Prøysenhuset is the national cultural centre built in his honour, designed by Snøhetta architects and set in the countryside where he grew up. The exhibitions trace his path from barefoot farm boy to national icon, with original manuscripts, personal belongings, and listening stations where you can hear his distinctive voice. Next door stands Prøysenstua, the small farmhouse where he spent his childhood.
The centre is as much a living stage as a museum. Summer brings open-air concerts and theater in the amphitheatre, while the Christmas season fills the house with performances of Snekker Andersen og Julenissen, one of Norway's favourite holiday stories. Kafé Julie serves homemade food year-round, and the cafe and gift shop can be visited without a museum ticket.
