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Raatteen Portti: Gateway to the Winter War History

Explore the pivotal Winter War history at Raatteen Portti, featuring Europe's largest Winter War museum and poignant war memorials.

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Raatteen Portti is a museum and memorial area commemorating the Winter War battles of 1939-1940. Located east of Suomussalmi, it features a museum with exhibits on the war, outdoor displays of military equipment, and the moving Avara Syli monument, making it a significant site for understanding Finnish history and resilience.

A brief summary to Raatteen Portti

Local tips

  • Plan your visit during weekday mornings for a more quiet and personal experience.
  • Explore both the indoor and outdoor exhibits to fully appreciate the scope of the Winter War.
  • Take time to reflect at the Avara Syli monument and the field of stones, honoring those who lost their lives.
  • Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical context and personal stories of the Winter War.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If arriving by car, navigate towards Suomussalmi. From Suomussalmi center, follow Raatteentie (Road 912) east for approximately 23 kilometers. Raatteen Portti is located directly on the road. Parking is available and free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Raatteen Portti via public transport, take a bus to the Suomussalmi bus station. From there, a taxi is required to cover the remaining distance to Raatteen Portti, as there are no direct bus connections. The taxi ride is approximately 10 minutes and costs around 15-20 euros.

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Discover more about Raatteen Portti

Raatteen Portti, or the Gateway to Raate, is a historical site dedicated to the Winter War fought between Finland and the Soviet Union. Located a short distance east of Suomussalmi, in the Kainuu region of Finland, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fierce battles that took place here during the winter of 1939-1940. The primary mission of the Soviet troops was to bisect Finland at its narrowest point and sever its land connection to Sweden. However, Finnish soldiers achieved a major defensive victory in the battles of Suomussalmi and Raate Road. The Raatteen Portti museum is the largest Winter War museum in Europe. Inside, exhibits detail the events leading up to the war, the evacuation preparations, and the brutal conditions faced by soldiers. A documentary film provides further insight, with subtitles available in multiple languages. The museum also features a changing exhibition on the Continuation War (1941-1944), showcasing weapons, propaganda, and personal items from the conflict. Visitors can explore the outdoor area, which displays heavy war-time machinery, including a Soviet tank involved in the Battle of Raate Road. Beyond the museum, the Avara Syli monument stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance. It features 105 bells, one for each day of the Winter War, and is surrounded by a field of stones, representing the fallen soldiers. Visitors can also walk along the Raate Road, where remnants of the war can still be seen. Raatteen Portti offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to understand the Winter War and its impact on Finland. It is a place for reflection, education, and remembrance.

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