Description of the attraction
Lappeenranta is historically known as a cavalry city. In 1809, Finland became an autonomous Grand Duchy of the Russian Empire, and was previously part of Sweden. In 1878, the country created its own army, which received the name - "Old Army". The Finnish dragoon regiment in 1889 settled in Lappeenranta, where barracks were specially built for it. In 1947, the history of cavalry in Finland ended, but the tradition and heritage are still preserved thanks to the participation of various foundations and associations.
The Lappeenranta Cavalry Museum is located on the territory of the oldest building in the city - the Linnoitus fortress - in a former guardhouse, built in 1722. Local authorities and foundations put a lot of effort into creating in 1973 an exhibition collection dedicated to the Thirty Years' War of 1618-1648.
Here are collected expensive old paintings and engravings depicting the exciting historical battles of those years. Visitors will also see a rare flintlock gun of the 18th century, uniforms of soldiers of that time, old black-and-white photographs from which one can trace fragments from the life of the aristocracy, as well as learn about the history of the creation of the army.
The Cavalry Museum is open to the public during the summer according to the schedule, and in the fall, in the winter and summer by prior arrangement.
