As I sat on the steps of the National Museum of Finland at the first dew of the morning, I began to reflect on the silence around me and wondered how history had been inscribed within the walls. Finland's museums offer a window into our rich and diverse cultural heritage.
The National Museum is one of those places that every Finn should visit at least once in their lives. Within its walls you will find a fascinating story of Finnish history, culture and identity. There, you can listen to and interpret echoes of the past for yourself, and at the same time learn to understand your own place as part of this long and colourful journey.
When I start my tour of the museum's exhibitions, the first stop is the prehistory section. Here, my gaze is drawn to a Bronze Age clay pot, which makes me think about the everyday life and lifestyle of the people of that time. Next, we dive into medieval Finland, when the northern country comes alive with churches, castles and marketplaces. As I continue my journey, I enter a 17th-century manor house whose walls tell stories of nobility, state intrigue and cultural change.
Museums offer an opportunity to learn about our own history, but also to understand different perspectives and values. They tell stories from the past that help us build for the future. Finland's museums shine a light on the nation's colourful heritage and are an integral part of Finnish identity.
Summary
Through Finnish museums you can dive deep into the roots of Finnishness and admire our cultural diversity. Wandering along the walls of the National Museum is an opportunity to discover the twists and turns of our country's past - its triumphs and challenges - all of which have contributed to shaping Finland's cultural traits. These stories are not just part of history, they are also part of us and make us who we are today. Nothing else provides such a rich overview of the past as a visit to a museum - a journey where every step tells a story.