Story of Finland

Finland’s recent history is a mingling of light and deep shadows. The exhibition takes a bold new look at the wounds left by wars and the struggle for independence. But it also brims with joy for the 100-year-old Finland, which has managed to grow into a country of democracy, equality and wellbeing, and pokes loving fun at the nation’s little peculiarities – Finns are a weird but happy bunch! We are a people who love the Moomins, the Ball Chair, children’s waterproof overalls, heavy metal music and sauna.

The carefully selected items on display have a strong grip on our hearts. The boots of a fallen red soldier, a ballot box from the first election, goldware donated to the state by ordinary people during the Second World War, and the ocarina and suitcase of little refugee girl Elvi who had to leave her home in Karelia all vividly connect the past with the present. The story continues on in digital format in places where the physical objects, images and words alone are not sufficient.

A powerful story will never provide the audience with ready-made answers, which is why the exhibition leaves room for people’s own ideas and interpretations.

National Museum of Finland

Permanent exhibition, open till 15.10.2023