Käsmu Maritime Museum – A Must-Visit Spot for Maritime Enthusiasts
Located in the small fishing village of Käsmu, in the Lahemaa National Park in Estonia, the Käsmu Maritime Museum is a must-visit for any maritime enthusiast looking to discover a piece of Estonian maritime history. Founded in 1988, the museum is dedicated to displaying and preserving the history of Estonia’s maritime culture, including stories of its fishermen and sailors, pirates and smugglers, and the ships that sailed on the Baltic Sea.
The museum holds a wealth of artifacts from the past, including old boats, several models of sailing ships, and a wide variety of documents, photographs, and other maritime-related items. Visitors can also explore the museum’s permanent exhibition, “The Maritime World of Käsmu”, where they will find detailed information about the history of the village and its people.
What to See at Käsmu Maritime Museum
The Käsmu Maritime Museum is home to some truly unique artifacts and exhibits, making it a must-see spot for any traveler interested in maritime history. Here are just a few of the items and features you can explore while visiting the museum.
- Models of Historic Sailing Ships: The museum has several models of sailing ships dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These models give visitors a glimpse into what life was like onboard a traditional sailing vessel.
- Fishing Boats: The museum also features several fishing boats from the past, including some that were traditionally used in the Käsmu region. These boats show how fishing in the area has changed over time.
- Historic Documents: The museum holds a wealth of historic documents, including maps, logbooks, and other items related to the maritime history of the region.
- Photographs: The museum also has a large collection of photographs related to the maritime heritage of Käsmu. These photographs give visitors a glimpse into the past.
- Exhibitions: The museum’s permanent exhibition, “The Maritime World of Käsmu”, takes visitors on a journey through the village’s maritime history. The exhibition is divided into six sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the area’s maritime history.
Visiting Käsmu Maritime Museum
The Käsmu Maritime Museum is open all year round. During the summer months, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm. During the winter, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Admission to the museum is free, and visitors can also take advantage of guided tours of the museum and its exhibitions. Guided tours are available in both English and Estonian.
Käsmu Maritime Museum is a must-visit spot for any traveler interested in maritime history. With its wealth of artifacts, models, documents, and photographs, the museum offers a unique insight into the maritime culture of the region. So if you’re looking to get a glimpse into the past, be sure to visit the Käsmu Maritime Museum on your next trip to Estonia.