HEX! Museum of Witch Hunt in Ribe
Fear of witches, trials, and individual lives shape the story of witch hunts in Denmark and Europe. In Ribe, the museum tells this history through audio guides, films, and historical artifacts, including the story of Maren Spliids. The museum is temporarily closed for renovation and reopens on February 13, 2027.
HEX! Museum of Witch Hunt in Ribe is temporarily closed for renovation.
The museum reopens on February 13, 2027.
"Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live" - The Book of Exodus
The museum tells the chilling story of the fear of witches that swept across Denmark and Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. It led to witch trials with horrific consequences. Ribe was at the heart of Denmark's witch trials, and the country's most famous case unfolded in the streets around the museum: the trial of Maren Spliids, a tailor's wife who was burned at the stake in 1641. Some of the buildings still stand, providing an authentic setting for the museum's compelling story.
Why did ordinary people believe that witches could steal their happiness? Why were those convicted so often women? With our audio guides, you can explore the fear of witches and meet those who fell victim to it.
Watch the two short films telling the true stories of women convicted as witches. One, Lamme Sidsel, is little known today, while the other is Denmark's most famous witch, Maren Spliids.
What tools did witches use? What did people need to protect themselves against them? The exhibition features fine historical artifacts as well as reconstructions. On interactive screens, you can read about the objects associated with witches.
Explore the Europe of the witch hunters through an interactive map. It shows, for example, where persecution was most intense and where more men than women were convicted.
The museum is not suitable for young children.
Contact information
Facilities
- Museum shop/Kiosk
- Service dogs allowed
Last updated by:Vadehavskysteninfo@vadehavskysten.dk
