All societies punish unwanted behaviour. Punishment is an evil that is inflicted on persons who have broken the law. In a state governed by law no-one may be punished without legal basis. In Norway, punishment is regulated by Norwegian laws and human rights.

The exhibit can be found on the first floor, above the reception. You can use either set of stairs at the start and end of the corridor. The English translation of the exhibit can be found just inside the door on the wall to the left.

Both laws, methods of punishment and conceptions of criminal liability are changing over time. Physical punishment was used Norway up to 1896. Death penalty for civilian crimes was abolished in 1902.

The oldest penal sanctions we know emphasize revenge, retribution and restoration of damage by means of fines, compensation and banishment. Modern punishment is to be based on a humanistic value basis.