The National Museum of Finland
The National Museum of Finland is a national museum of cultural history. It is responsible for the largest and oldest cultural history collections in Finland, maintains museum sites across the country, and provides a wide range of cultural services, exhibitions, and events. The National Museum of Finland is also an active societal stakeholder and a recognised expert at the international level.
The collections of the National Museum of Finland
Our collections encompass both the history and cultures of the geographical area that is now Finland and cultures from around the world. They also include, among other holdings, an extensive numismatic collection and Finland’s national collections relating to maritime history and underwater cultural heritage. The National Museum of Finland continuously documents and preserves the cultural heritage of our own time.
Museums and Castles
The museum sites of the National Museum of Finland are the National Museum, Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, the Maritime Museum of Finland, Louhisaari Manor Castle, Olavinlinna Castle, Häme Castle, Tamminiemi, Hvitträsk, the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, and the Prison Museum in Hämeenlinna.
Exhibitions and Events
Through our exhibitions and events, we foster understanding of diverse cultures and historical themes while examining Finnish identity and its relationship with the wider world from contemporary perspectives. Our programme explores cultural heritage and history in their broadest sense, from prehistory to the present day and from Finnish topics to global issues.
The History of the National Museum of Finland
The origins of the National Museum of Finland date back to the eighteenth century, when historical collections began to be assembled at the Royal Academy of Turku. The numismatic material that survived the Great Fire of Turku was transferred to the University of Helsinki in 1828, where the collections expanded through archaeological discoveries, research activities, and donations. By the mid-nineteenth century, the university had amassed extensive historical, archaeological, and ethnographic collections that came to be regarded as the foundation of a future national museum.
Our Mission and Values
We carry out high-quality, innovative, goal-oriented, and collaborative museum work to create cultural wisdom and points of reference in a world that is changing faster than ever before. The mission of the National Museum of Finland is to be present wherever futures are being shaped. Our values are humanity, inspiration, and movement.
Where we operate
The National Museum of Finland employs staff on a permanent basis at 11 locations across Finland. The museum’s executive offices are located at the National Museum in Helsinki.