A Museum Reimagines Finnish-Russian Relations in the Wake of Changing Dynamics

From Lenin to Nootti

The former Lenin Museum in Tampere, Finland, has undergone a dramatic transformation, reopening under the new name "Nootti," which signifies a diplomatic note. This shift reflects the rapidly changing dynamics between Finland and Russia, particularly in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Originally established in 1946 as a symbol of post-war friendship, the museum's location held significance as the site of the first meeting between young communist leaders Lenin and Stalin. During the Cold War, it served as a platform for diplomacy. In 2016, the museum shifted its focus to Soviet history instead of solely focusing on Lenin's life.

However, recent events, including Finland's swift ascension to NATO membership and the closure of the shared border, prompted the museum to undergo a significant update. The museum's director, Kalle Kallio, acknowledged that the Lenin name had become a burden, hindering public understanding of the museum's role.

The new museum, Nootti, delves into various themes, including the collapse of the Russian empire, Finnish independence, the civil wars, the fate of Soviet Finns, the Winter War, Finland's alliance with Hitler, the Cold War, "Finlandisation," secret services, bilateral trade, cultural relations, and the lead-up to Finland's NATO membership.

Exhibits include photographs, text, videos, and historical artifacts that narrate the evolving relationship between the two countries. Notably, a bicycle used by an asylum seeker to cross the border in 2023 is also on display.

While aiming to present both Finnish and Russian perspectives, the museum emphasizes that it does not collaborate with the Russian state or museums.

Despite the current state of relations, Kallio believes the museum's new focus and name ensure its continued relevance. He emphasizes the intertwined nature of Finnish and Russian history, stating that understanding one necessitates understanding the other. He concludes by acknowledging the inevitable continuation of relations between the two countries, with new history constantly unfolding.