The Danish Welfare Museum - Svendborg Museum

Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum is housed in the former Fattiggård (poorhouse) in Svendborg, built in 1872 as “Svendborg Købstads Fattig- og Arbejdsanstalt”. Today it is known as the best-preserved poorhouse in the Nordic region, offering rare insight into the physical setting of historic welfare. It was intended for people unable to support themselves or deemed in need of discipline and control.

Life behind the walls

The Fattiggård was divided into a relief institution and a workhouse. Living conditions depended on whether residents were judged “deserving” or “undeserving” poor. Forced labour applied to all, and admission meant loss of civil rights. Until 1961 it was a closed institution, later becoming a welfare home with formally voluntary residence. Operations ended in 1974.

Exhibitions and museum setting

The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions telling the story of welfare through buildings, objects and personal accounts, with dedicated activities for children. Current exhibitions and events are listed on the Fattiggården website. The grounds also include a historic garden, once cultivated by residents and now cared for by volunteers.