Historical sights

Discover history’s turning points in Mikkeli!

Mikkeli has served as the headquarters of the Finnish Armed Forces in all the wars that have been fought during Finland’s independence. Many of the original buildings have been preserved, allowing visitors to gain a real feel for the war years.

The Headquarters Museum houses the headquarters of the Finnish Armed Forces in three wars, including Marshal Mannerheim’s office in its original condition and an exhibition of the war years in Finland.

The Lokki Communications Centre is housed in a cave beneath Naisvuori hill and served as the Communications Centre of the Finnish Armed Forces during the Continuation War (1941-1944). The centre was used to transmit messages, phone calls and telexes.

Marshal Mannerheim’s saloon car (sleeping carriage) can be seen at Mikkeli Railway Station. The saloon car was used by Mannerheim and his staff from 1939 to 1946. During the war years Mannerheim travelled 78,000 kilometres in this carriage. The saloon car was restored at a workshop in Pasila and transferred to Mikkeli Railway Station in 1992.

The Infantry Museum presents the history and development of the Finnish infantry’s armament, uniforms and military training and activities from the 18th century to today. The museum is housed in three historic wooden barracks, where you will also find a museum café and shop.

Mikkeli Club is a traditional gentlemen’s club that was frequented by Marshal Mannerheim between 1941 and 1944. Today the club serves as a banqueting restaurant where guests can experience the authentic milieu and enjoy the Mannerheim Menu.

Mannerheim Menu
Vorschmack
Pikeperch Walewska
Chocolate cake

Marshal Mannerheim was very particular about table manners,
and he also made it clear who sat at the head of the table.
The seating arrangement was very specific.
Everyone sat down simultaneously after a light bow.
The Marshal always began the conversation by defining the subjects that would be discussed.
The war was not discussed, and the Marshal could not stand chatter.
No one was allowed to smoke at the table either.
The “Marshal’s Shot” – aquavit filled to the rim – was served before eating.
The shot was enjoyed sitting down without toasting. The shot was finished in 2-3 swigs.  
Mikkeli Club