The Norwegian Petroleum Museum in Stavanger provides a modern interactive setting for experiencing how oil and gas were created millions of years ago, how petroleum is found and how it is used. Original objects, models, films and interactive exhibits convey the history of oil operations on the Norwegian continental shelf. The museum also provides insights into technological developments in the petroleum sector, and the way this industry has affected Norwegian society. Norway’s oil history began in the mid-1960s, when negotiations on dividing lines in the North Sea had been completed.

The Ministry of Industry established an oil office and the first licensing round was announced. The museum presents historical developments from the first rigs drilling in the North Sea, via steel and concrete platforms developed and built in Norway, to flexible modern production ships and subsea systems which seem to be the future on the Norwegian continental shelf.