The Trondenes Historical Center is the main museum for Harstad and the surrounding area, focusing on the history of northern Norway from Viking times through the Second World War. Exhibits cover the Norse settlement of this coast, medieval church history, and the extensive wartime presence — Harstad was a significant German naval base, and the area saw considerable activity.
The museum is a ten-minute drive from central Harstad, situated on the Trondenes peninsula close to the medieval church. Combined with the church and the nearby Adolf Gun fortification, it makes for a half-day excursion to one of the more history-rich corners of northern Norway.