Rannarootsi Muuseum

About the museum

The Rannarootsi Muuseum in Haapsalu tells the story of the coastal Swedes: Swedes have lived on the coast and islands of north-west Estonia for more than a thousand years. The reasons given include seafaring, the interests of the Baltic German manor lords and a spirit of adventure.

The permanent exhibition presents the coastal Swedes. Other exhibits include the Rannavaip (coastal tapestry), the Võrgukuur (net shed), the Suitsuahi (smoke hearth), the Rannaküün (coastal barn), a memorial to boat refugees and the travelling exhibition “Ruhnu viiuldajad” (“The Violinists of Ruhnu”). The most striking is the 20-metre embroidered tapestry, which depicts the life of the coastal Swedes, including a scene in which Swedish farmers buy the island of Suur-Pakri in 1345. Several traditional wooden boats are also on display outside.

The museum organises events and traditional Swedish weddings, and the smoke sauna can be booked. A sea centre with boat repair, a café and a 60-seat hall is planned for the yard.

Highlights

• 20-metre embroidered Rannavaip (coastal tapestry)
• History of the coastal Swedes over more than a thousand years
• Traditional wooden boats
• Smoke hearth, net shed and coastal barn
• Memorial to the boat refugees

Permanent exhibition

• Rannarootslased – The permanent exhibition presents the history of the coastal Swedes; it includes the Rannavaip, the Võrgukuur, the Suitsuahi, the Rannaküün and traditional wooden boats.

Admission & discounts

Payment can be made in cash or by card. A smoke sauna can be booked.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The museum is located at Haapsalu harbour, on Sadama street.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Weddings / ceremonies

The museum organises events and traditional Swedish weddings.