Moomin Museum | Tampere

The Moomin Museum (Muumimuseo) in Tampere is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to the beloved characters and world created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson. It is the only museum in the world that is entirely focused on the Moomins, making it a must-visit for fans of these charming characters and their whimsical stories. Here’s a detailed overview of the museum:

1. History and Location

• Opened: The Moomin Museum officially opened its doors in 2017, though its origins can be traced back to a smaller Moomin exhibit that was previously part of the Tampere Art Museum.
• Location: The museum is located in the Tampere Hall (Tampereen Talo), one of the largest and most modern cultural venues in Finland. The museum is easily accessible and sits within the heart of the city, attracting both locals and international visitors.

2. Tove Jansson and the Moomin Legacy

• Tove Jansson: Tove Jansson, a Finnish-Swedish artist, is best known for creating the Moomin series, which began as comic strips in 1945 and later evolved into books, illustrations, and even animated adaptations. The Moomins, a family of hippo-like creatures, live in the fictional Moominvalley and have become icons of Finnish literature and culture.
• Moomin Characters: Key characters in the Moomin family include Moomintroll, the curious and kind-hearted protagonist; Moominmamma, the loving and caring mother; Moominpappa, the adventurous and philosophical father; Snufkin, the wanderer and friend of Moomintroll; and Little My, a small, mischievous character. These characters, along with others like Snorkmaiden and Too-ticky, form the heart of the Moomin stories.

3. Museum’s Collections

• Original Artworks: The Moomin Museum houses a vast collection of original illustrations by Tove Jansson, including drawings from the Moomin books, comic strips, and posters. These works showcase Jansson's distinctive style, which blends innocence with deep philosophical themes and beautiful, whimsical landscapes.
• Interactive Exhibits: The museum provides an interactive experience for visitors, with displays and installations designed to immerse people in the magical world of Moominvalley. Visitors can see sketches, early drafts, and original stories, allowing them to explore Jansson's creative process.
• Moomin Comic Strips: The museum showcases some of the earliest comic strips, highlighting the evolution of the Moomin characters from a humble beginning to international fame. These strips were published in newspapers worldwide and contributed to the Moomins' popularity.
• Original Books and Manuscripts: In addition to the art, the museum also exhibits first editions of the Moomin books and handwritten manuscripts by Tove Jansson, offering a closer look at the author’s writing and creative journey.

4. Themed Rooms and Spaces

• The museum features several themed rooms that bring various parts of the Moomin universe to life. Each room is dedicated to different aspects of the Moomin stories:
  • Moomin House: A central element in the Moomin stories, the museum features a replica of the iconic Moominhouse where the characters live. This space allows visitors to step inside the world of the Moomins and explore their cozy and eccentric home.
  • Moominvalley: This section of the museum is designed to transport visitors to the magical Moominvalley, where lush forests, tranquil lakes, and whimsical creatures coexist. The exhibition includes life-sized dioramas of the Moomin family’s adventures.
  • Moomin Books: Visitors can also view the evolution of the Moomin books and learn about their themes of family, friendship, and the beauty of nature.

5. Exhibitions and Events

• Temporary Exhibitions: In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of the Moomin universe, including special exhibits about Tove Jansson’s life, the themes in her stories, and the global impact of the Moomins.
• Special Events: The museum organizes various events throughout the year, including workshops, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. These events often focus on creative arts, drawing inspiration from the Moomin stories and their messages of tolerance, kindness, and creativity.

6. Moomin Shop

• The museum has an official Moomin shop where visitors can purchase Moomin-themed merchandise, including toys, books, clothing, and collectibles. The shop is a great place for fans of the Moomins to take home a piece of the magical world.
• The shop also offers limited edition items, making it a destination for collectors and those looking for unique Moomin memorabilia.

7. Visitor Experience

• Family-Friendly: The Moomin Museum is a family-friendly destination, with a particular focus on young visitors. Interactive displays, storytelling sessions, and Moomin-themed play areas ensure that children can engage with the Moomin universe in a hands-on and imaginative way.
• Multilingual: The museum offers information in multiple languages, including Finnish, Swedish, and English, making it accessible to international visitors. Audio guides are also available, providing a more in-depth experience.
• Atmosphere: The museum’s design is vibrant, inviting, and full of whimsy, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping into the pages of a Moomin book.

8. Cultural Impact

• The Moomin Museum celebrates not only the works of Tove Jansson but also the enduring cultural significance of the Moomins in Finland and beyond. The Moomin stories have touched the hearts of generations of readers around the world, with their messages of tolerance, the beauty of nature, and the importance of community and friendship.
• The Moomins are recognized as Finnish national treasures, and the museum plays a key role in preserving and sharing their legacy with future generations.

9. Conclusion

The Moomin Museum is a celebration of one of Finland's most iconic literary and artistic creations. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the Moomins or discovering them for the first time, the museum offers a rich and immersive experience that brings Tove Jansson's magical world to life. With its original artworks, interactive displays, and captivating exhibits, the Moomin Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Finnish culture, literature, and art.