Winter War Monument, Kainuu Travel Guide

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A solemn memorial in Suomussalmi commemorating the Winter War, featuring a field of stones and ringing bells.

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Winter War Monument

The Winter War Monument at Raatteen Portti in Suomussalmi is a poignant memorial to the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. It features a vast field of stones and a central memorial, offering a space for reflection on the conflict's impact.

A brief summary to Winter War Monument

kk, Raatteentie 2, Suomussalmi, 89800, FI
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Winter War Monument.

Take time to walk through the stone field and reflect on the individual lives lost during the Winter War.
Visit the Winter War Museum at Raatteen Portti to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context.
Listen to the sounds of the 105 brass bells on the "Open Embrace" memorial, each representing a day of the Winter War.

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Getting There

Car

Raatteen Portti is located along the rural road 912, to the east of Suomussalmi. From Suomussalmi, follow Raatteentie (road 912) eastward. The monument and museum are well-signposted. There is free parking available at Raatteen Portti. Note that during winter, road conditions can be challenging, so ensure your vehicle is equipped for icy roads.
Public Transport

The closest airports are in Kuusamo to the north and Kajaani to the south. From Kajaani, you can take a bus to Suomussalmi. From Suomussalmi, local bus services may be limited, and taxi services are available to reach Raatteen Portti, approximately 23 km east of the town. A taxi from Suomussalmi to Raatteen Portti will cost approximately 40-50 EUR. Check local bus schedules for potential connections, especially during the main tourist season.

Discover more about Winter War Monument

The Winter War Monument, inaugurated on March 13, 2003, stands as a powerful tribute to the victims and suffering of the Winter War. Located at Raatteen Portti, the monument is closely connected to the Raate Road, a site of intense battles during the war.The monument's stone field spans approximately 3 hectares and contains around 17,000 natural stones. Each stone represents a Finnish or Russian soldier who perished in the conflict. Encircled by a forest bearing the scars of artillery fire, the field serves as a stark visual reminder of the war's devastation.The central memorial, known as "Open Embrace," consists of four wooden arches topped with 105 brass bells. These bells, one for each day of the Winter War, ring in the wind, creating a somber and reflective atmosphere. The memorial was designed by Erkki Pullinen, a local artist from Suomussalmi.The Winter War Monument serves not only as a memorial to the fallen but also as a tribute to all veterans of the Winter War. It encourages visitors to contemplate the profound human cost of war and the enduring impact of the Winter War on Finland and its people.Raatteen Portti, where the monument is located, is a significant historical site. It features the Winter War Museum, which showcases exhibits about the war, including captured Soviet equipment and the harsh conditions faced by soldiers. The site also includes the Kanttiini Päämaja, a café offering refreshments, and the Majatalo Karhun Pesä, a hostel for visitors wishing to explore the area further.