After my fascinating visit to the Suomenlinna Museum, I ventured over to the captivating Finnish Military Museum’s Manege & Artillery Manege.
As a history buff, I simply couldn’t skip visiting the museum.
Thanks to my golden ticket — the Helsinki Card — entry to the museum was free, adding to my Suomenlinna adventure.
War Time
From the moment I stepped into the Military Museum’s Manege, I was transported back in time, diving deep into Finland’s formidable military history.
Here, I discovered the four pivotal wars that shaped the nation’s identity: the Civil War in 1918, the Winter War in 1939–1940, the Continuation War in 1941–1944 and the Lapland War in 1944–1945.
Each exhibition piece told a powerful story of resilience, sacrifice, and courage that is essential for understanding Finland’s journey to independence.
Signal Dugout
One highlight that took my breath away was the incredible bunker recreation, especially the Signal dugout from the Continuation War.
It was fascinating to discover that this radio dugout was designed separately from the phone area, and that soldiers manned it around the clock. Can you believe it took an astonishing 85 workdays to build something so vital?
I stood there, imagining the intense atmosphere, with whispers of coded messages and the tension of war lingering in the air.
Rheinmetall-Borsig 88/Anti-Aircraft Gun
Then, there was the awe-inspiring Rheinmetall-Borsig 88/Anti-Aircraft Gun.
Wow, just wow!
This beast was one of the most effective anti-aircraft guns from World War II, and I learned that Finland acquired 90 of them between 1943 and 1944. Standing next to such a colossal piece of machinery, I couldn’t help but marvel at its significance — both in terms of technology and history.
Steyr & Vickers
The exhibition also showcased the unique Steyr 1500A/02 command car and the impressive Vickers light tank. The Steyrs, initially used by the army in World War II, were later handed down to the Defence Forces.
The Vickers, a British light tank that found its way to various corners of the world, including Finland, made me think about the global connections forged in the chaos of war.
Lotta Svärd
One of the most personal connections for me was learning about the Lotta Svärd, a Finnish women’s auxiliary organization formed in 1918.
The Lottas played a critical role in supporting the White Guard and, during World War II, they were on the front lines in a different way — serving in hospitals, managing air raid warnings, and carrying out auxiliary tasks alongside the army.
Visualizing 7,000 Lottas diligently watching the skies for enemy planes gave me chills; they truly embodied the spirit of resilience and courage.
This museum was incredible! The level of detail and the wealth of information completely blew me away. I’m so glad I took the time to explore before leaving Suomenlinna; the experience was unforgettable!
Artillery Manege
The journey continued to the Artillery Manege, which featured the impressive exhibition titled “Altered by War.” This exhibit captured the raw emotions and experiences of Finnish soldiers during World War II, showcasing breathtaking pieces of frontline art that spoke volumes about their struggles and triumphs.
Upon entering, I was met by the Saab 35 Draken, a testament to engineering and bravery. The Draken was officially introduced into service with the Swedish Air Force in 1960.
I was fascinated to learned that the Drakens flew in the fighter squadrons until being replaced by the current American F/A-18 Hornets in 2000.
My favorite aspect of the exhibition was the ‘Life of a Soldier’ section. Here, visitors were encouraged to try on uniforms, sleep in a bunk bed, and spend time in a tent, all while contemplating the hardships of military life.
Of course, the exhibit showcased the benefits of military life. It also featured infographics showcasing military stats and information from other countries’ militaries.
Information Company
The exhibit on the Information Company was of particular interest to me. Having served in the U.S. military as a journalist and public affairs specialist, I’ve come to understand firsthand the crucial importance of building public trust and combating misinformation. In today’s fast-paced, social media-driven landscape, this mission feels more urgent than ever.
The exhibit highlights the diverse talents of the individuals serving in the Information Company beyond their roles as illustrators. Many of these professionals were also accomplished authors who crafted narratives and articles that provided vital context and insights.
Additionally, they were skilled photographers, capturing powerful imagery that conveyed the realities of their experiences. As reporters, they documented events and shared stories that helped inform the public and preserve history.
This multifaceted skill set illustrates the significant contributions these individuals made to communication and documentation during their service.
Enter the Virtual World
But don’t fret if you can’t make it to Suomenlinna just yet! The organizers brilliantly created a captivating virtual exhibition, allowing you to dive into the exhibits from the comfort of your own home.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover all the fascinating stories waiting for you! So, make a plan to visit — both in person and online — and immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible museum! You won’t regret it!
There’s also a amazing VR function that immerses you in the experience like never before. I’m still surprised at how cool this function is to try. It was like stepping into a whole new world! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
REFLECTION
Visiting these museums is not just about wandering through halls filled with artifacts; it’s about connecting with the heart and soul of Finland’s defense story.
The Finnish Military Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing this narrative, reminding us of the cost of freedom and the bravery of those who fought for it.
So, if you find yourself in Helsinki, make sure to carve out some time to explore these remarkable galleries.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the tales of bravery and resilience waiting to be uncovered at the Finnish Military Museum will leave you inspired and appreciative. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience history firsthand!
Until next time …
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