Estonian Folk Museum

In Estonia’s biggest museum there’s more than ever before, and indeed more than anywhere else: more space, more stories, more information and more events. All of this provides new answers to the questions: Who are Estonians? Why are they the way they are? What do they do? What do they think? How do they express themselves? What do they look like? The museum’s exhibitions are underpinned by cutting-edge science and technology, but are all about creating mood and stirring emotions. Echo of the Urals, named Best Permanent Exhibition in Estonia 2016, introduces the culture of Estonians and the other Finno-Ugric peoples of Northern Eurasia. Encounters details the daily lives of Estonians, from the Ice Age to today. Audiovisual elements bring the exhibits to life with song and movement, while electronic information placards change languages with the touch of a keycard. This medley of history, design, art, technology and entertainment creates an engaging place for children and adults alike.

The museum that was opened in 2007 and is located on Jaama Street 14, in the old residence of the Estonian society "Vanemuine". The main attraction and the soul of the museum is to be called "Carrying own tune", an exhibition that tells the story of the legendary and world famous Estonian song festival tradition, conveys the feelings of a national awakening and the formation of a nation. The Classical building from the first half of the 19th century is listed as a cultural monument and holds great importance in our cultural history. It was here on 24 June 1870 that a popular play by Lydia Koidula, Saaremaa Onupoeg, was performed, paving the way for the foundation of Estonian theatre.