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Raate Frontier Guard Museum: A Window to Wartime Border Life

Step back in time at the Raate Frontier Guard Museum and discover the lives of Finnish border guards before World War II.

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The Raate Frontier Guard Museum offers a glimpse into the life of Finnish border guards before WWII. Preserved in its 1939 state, the museum tells the story of the Winter War and its impact on the border region.

A brief summary to Raate Frontier Guard Museum

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter, more personal experience.
  • Read the personal stories displayed alongside the artifacts to gain a deeper understanding of the past.
  • Explore the outdoor memorial area to honor those who served.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Suomussalmi center, head east on Raatteentie (Route 912) for approximately 39 km. The museum will be on your left. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    From Suomussalmi, take a bus towards Raate. Check local bus schedules as services may vary. The bus will drop you off on Raatteentie, close to the museum. Alternatively, a taxi from Suomussalmi to the museum costs approximately €75-€90.

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Discover more about Raate Frontier Guard Museum

Located at the eastern end of Raate Road in Suomussalmi, the Raate Frontier Guard Museum provides a unique glimpse into the life of a Finnish frontier guard post before the Second World War. The building, restored to its 1939 appearance, is the only pre-war frontier guard building still standing. The museum details the daily lives of the border guards and the impact of the Winter War on the region. Exhibits showcase military uniforms, weaponry and personal stories, highlighting the bravery of the soldiers and the war's impact on the local community. The surrounding area includes outdoor installations and a memorial site honoring fallen heroes. The frontier guard post saw service under three different domains: first for the Finns, then for the Russians during the Winter War, and finally for the Germans during the Continuation War. The museum opened in the summer of 1988 and has become a significant cultural and historical site.

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