In the midst of seemingly endless snowy plains, Juhls’ Silver Gallery is a diamond in the wilderness. The gallery makes handmade Sami jewelry that is often used in the wedding ceremonies of this traditional civilization. Browse the fascinating trinkets and jewels on display. You may decide to purchase something precious to take home.
Admire the curved and sweeping geometry of the building, which seems to merge a sleek, modern design with the quaint, snowy setting. Capture photos of the picturesque surroundings of the shop, which offers views of the Kautokeino River and the charming town.
Note that the gallery represents the life’s work of Frank and Regine Juhls. The young adventurers set up the impressive structure before roads were built in this cold wilderness. A silversmith works in the building alongside the Juhls.
Learn the role of silver in the Sami nomad community. It is used as currency as well as a way of displaying wealth. The inception of this gallery enabled the local Sami people to design and make their own jewelry.
Visit some of the additional rooms and sections, such as the hen and sheep barn that is separated from the silver display by a glass wall. See the small museum that chronicles the couple’s time with other nomadic cultures in Afghanistan.
Another wing contains a museum for old objects from the 1950s and ‘60s, including costumes and cutlery. Marvel at the mosaic of glass, tiles and trinkets in a nearby room. Warm up from the cold outdoors with a hot beverage at the site’s café.
The gallery opens daily from morning until early evening and even later in summer. Juhls’ Silver Gallery is on the western flank of the Kautokeino River, a little south of the village of Kautokeino. Drive through the large expanses of snowy countryside to get here. Visit nearby landmarks, such as the Kautokeino Church, the Kautokeino Tourism Office and Sámi University College.