Prison Museum, Hämeenlinna, Finland

The prison museum introduces to the visitors the history of correctional treatment in Finland and the prison life in the past and these days. The most valuable item is the museum building itself with its authentic premises that have been maintained in their original condition since the time when the building still functioned as a prison. The building and the exhibition consist of three floors.

The prison museum functions in the former premises of the provincial prison of Häme. When the building was finished in 1871, it was the first prison in Finland with cells, and it was used until the 1993. The museum was opened to the public in June, 1997. The building was designed by the architect L. I. Lindqvist. The museum features a permanent exhibition and changing exhibitions. For more details, take a look at the museum's calendar of events. Special exhibition: elementary studies in prison. In this exhibition, you can find answers to questions about how and why reading, writing and basic mathematics were taught in prisons. Paid guided tours available only if booked in advance.

User Reviews

María Andrea Cruz Blandón (2 years ago)
Staff was very friendly and helpful.

Carrie Weinandt (3 years ago)
Definitely visit if you are in town. There is a great video available in English as well. The museum is free and has a very cute gift shop.

Zobair Bayat (3 years ago)
I have visited the museum on 1st of October 2020, which was a great experience, I do recommend most of turists to check the history of Hämeenlinna city which was mind-blowing, i had some feedback which I shared with them, was absolutely understandable and they accepted with appreciation.

Pasi Hakonen (4 years ago)
The staff was very friendly. Interesting variety of books in the shop. Upstairs lobby had a very nice table group where to stop and rest for a while.

Sergei Glotov (4 years ago)
Very nice place with plenty of entertaining things. Everything has English description, the stuff is helpful and interactive activities are creative. Definitely worth checking out.

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