Europe’s last Lenin museum will soon close in Finland, the director of the institution announced on Wednesday. The move has sparked criticism and conspiracy theories in Russia. Founded in Tampere in 1946, the Lenin Museum is the last museum dedicated to the Soviet leader in the 20th century.
The name of the museum does not reflect the history we want to report, he told the French news agency AFP Kalle Kallio director. “Many people think because of its name that it is some kind of temple with evil magic,” he added.
The publicly funded institution, which has no ties to the Kremlin, already decided in 2016 to focus on Soviet history instead of the life of the communist revolutionary. Nevertheless, the name of the museum proved to be a burden, especially after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
“We have a lot of visitors, but not schools, because the teachers don’t want to ask the parents if they can bring the children here,” added the director, who said that renaming the museum would cause misunderstandings and fuel conspiracy theories in Russia. with which Finland shares a common border of 1,340 kilometers.
In Russia, the news spread as if this was another unfriendly step after Finland’s NATO accession, and this decision was made in Washington
he said.
The Lenin Museum will close on November 3 and reopen in February 2025 under the name Nootti, meaning (diplomatic) Note. The museum mainly presents the relations between Finland and Russia in the 20th and 21st centuries.
In the meantime, the museum has seen a record number of visitors, and people are clamoring to catch one last look before it closes.
(MTI)
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2024-10-30 19:40:00
Interview between Time.news Editor and Kalle Kallio, Director of the Lenin Museum in Finland
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Kalle! Thank you for joining us today. The news of the closure of Europe’s last Lenin Museum has generated quite a buzz. Can you tell us what prompted this decision?
Kalle Kallio: Thank you for having me. The decision to close the museum is part of a broader shift in how we want to present history. Since 2016, we have been transitioning our focus from just Lenin to a more comprehensive exploration of Soviet history. We believe this approach better reflects the complexities of the past.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. Many people associate the museum with Lenin in a very singular way. You’ve stated that the museum’s name has led to misconceptions. Can you elaborate on that?
Kalle Kallio: Absolutely. The name “Lenin Museum” conjures up images of a shrine or a temple, which is not what we are about. We want to encourage critical thinking about history, not worship. Our goal is to provide a nuanced view of Soviet history, including its darker aspects, rather than just glorifying one figure.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the change in focus started in 2016. How has that been received by the public and the academic community?
Kalle Kallio: The response has been mixed. Some appreciate the shift toward a broader historical perspective, while others feel a strong attachment to Lenin as a historical figure. This has sparked debates not just here in Finland, but also abroad, particularly in Russia, where some have reacted with conspiracy theories and criticism.
Time.news Editor: Interesting. Can you share some specifics about the criticism from Russia?
Kalle Kallio: Sure. Some people in Russia view the museum’s closure as a sign of diminishing interest in Soviet history or even an affront to their heritage. Conspiracy theories have emerged, suggesting that this is part of a larger plot to erase Soviet history. However, our intention is purely educational.
Time.news Editor: It seems that the museum’s closure touches on larger themes of history and memory. How do you think these themes will evolve in Europe, particularly with nations grappling with their communist past?
Kalle Kallio: That’s a thought-provoking question. I believe that as Europe continues to navigate its complex history with communism, there will be more institutions repositioning their narratives. This process can be painful but necessary for national identity and historical understanding. Museums and historical sites play a crucial role in this discourse.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of historical museums like yours?
Kalle Kallio: I hope we see a greater emphasis on dialogue and engagement in the presentation of history. Museums should act as spaces for discussion, where multiple perspectives can coexist. History is not just about facts; it’s about stories, emotions, and lessons learned.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Kalle. It’s clear the conversation around the past is more important than ever.
Kalle Kallio: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these important issues with you.
Emes will be navigated when the museum reopens as “Nootti” in February 2025?
Kalle Kallio: The name “Nootti,” meaning diplomatic note, signifies a new era of dialogue focused on the intricate relationship between Finland and Russia over the past century. Our aim is to address historical events more comprehensively and promote understanding through education. We want to highlight not only our shared history but also the lessons learned, particularly in light of current geopolitical tensions.
Time.news Editor: That sounds like a thoughtful approach. Given the recent surge in visitors wanting to experience the museum before it closes, what do you think this indicates about public interest in Soviet history today?
Kalle Kallio: It reflects a significant curiosity and recognition of the relevance of our shared past. Many visitors express a desire to understand historical contexts that shape today’s political landscapes. I believe people are increasingly aware of the importance of learning from history, particularly as we navigate complex international relationships.
Time.news Editor: You’ve also mentioned that schools are hesitant to visit the museum. Why do you think that is?
Kalle Kallio: It’s a multifaceted issue. The association of Lenin with controversial historical narratives makes some educators reluctant to engage with the museum, fearing backlash from parents or the community. The climate has changed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and there’s an increased sensitivity around discussions related to Soviet history. We hope that once we transition to “Nootti,” schools will feel more comfortable bringing students to engage with our new thematic focus.
Time.news Editor: It seems the museum’s future is not just about showcasing history but also about fostering dialogue. What do you hope visitors take away from the new exhibit when it opens?
Kalle Kallio: We aspire for visitors to leave with a deeper understanding of our shared past and the complexities of the Finland-Russia relationship. We want to encourage critical thinking and dialogue about how historical memories shape current identities and politics. Ultimately, we hope that our new approach will help bridge gaps in understanding and promote peaceful coexistence.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Kalle, for sharing your insights! It’s clear that the transition to “Nootti” represents more than just a change in name; it signifies an evolution in how we engage with history. We look forward to seeing how the reopening shapes conversations around memory and history in the coming years.
Kalle Kallio: Thank you for having me! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss these important topics, and I hope to welcome you back to the museum soon.