Maritime special exhibition: Stone by Stone - Marstal Harbour Through 200 Years

Discover the story behind Marstal Harbour

How did a small natural harbour grow into one of Denmark's most important maritime ports? At the maritime museum in Marstal, the special exhibition Stone by Stone - Marstal Harbour Through 200 Years tells the story of the people who laid the foundations of the harbour - and of Marstal's rise as one of Denmark's great seafaring towns.

As you explore the exhibition, you'll meet the skippers and local residents who volunteered to begin building the first breakwater in 1825. Stones were gathered from the surrounding landscape and hauled across snow and ice until the first harbour wall began to take shape. Their shared effort created the harbour that would later become home to one of Denmark's largest merchant fleets.

From sailing ships to a modern working harbour

The exhibition follows the harbour's development across two centuries. Discover stories of sailing ships, steamships and coastal cargo vessels, as well as the busy harbour that remains a centre for maritime trades such as boatbuilding, engine repairs and rigging.

A small cinema screens historic film footage, giving you a vivid glimpse of everyday life around the harbour about 100 years ago. It's a chance to experience the atmosphere and activity that have shaped Marstal for generations.

Part of Marstal's maritime story

The exhibition offers a fresh perspective on the harbour, which remains the heart of Marstal today. Afterwards, continue your visit with a walk along the quays and breakwaters, where many of the stories unfolded. The harbour's development is also an important chapter in the history of Geopark The South Fyn Archipelago, where the forces of nature and generations of collective effort have shaped both the landscape and the local community.

The special exhibition is on display at the maritime museum in Marstal for a limited time.

Practical information

Admission to the exhibition is included with a ticket to the Marstal Søfartsmuseum (maritime museum), located close to the bus stop at Marstal Harbour and several nearby parking areas.