Pärnu Museum

The story of Pärnu begins here

Pärnu Museum takes you on an exciting journey through the history of the city and county of Pärnu. The permanent exhibition “11,000 Years of History – Experiences from Times Long Ago” See algab esimeste asukate tulekuga Pärnu piirkonda, kes lõid jääaja lõpul esimese teadaoleva Eesti alal paikneva asula. The hall of the Middle Ages reveals the world of new opportunities and contacts that arose as a result of the trade and pilgrimages of the Hanseatic League.

The baroque period display consists of rare items from the garrison of the fortress of Pärnu city, belongings of mayors, and business and university figures. The major part of the permanent exhibition is dedicated to the national awakening of Estonians in the middle of the 19th century, urbanization, and the founding of the Republic of Estonia, which was proclaimed in Pärnu. The history of Pärnu as a resort region is also displayed.

The last part of the permanent exhibition focuses on the second half of the 20th century, recalling the beginning of the occupation, the bushwhackers, and the daily life and bureaucracy of the Soviet era.

The museum shop offers products by local artisans and masters.