Conference “Recent history and its untold stories in open-air museums”

In 2022, the Estonian Open Air Museum is celebrating its 65th anniversary. The biggest open-air museum in Estonia, which lies on 70 hectares on the territory of the former Rocca al Mare summer estate in Tallinn, was established on 22 May 1957. It is dedicated to the research of the architectural heritage and living conditions of Estonian country people. By now, 80 buildings from the 18th–20th centuries have been transferred to the museum, most of which are located in 14 farmyards. The newest development of the museum is a block of flats from the Soviet period which introduces rural life in 1967, 1978, 1993, and 2019.

As this house has generated discussions about the necessity of displaying the recent history and/or difficult topics in an open-air museum, the Estonian Open Air Museum is organizing a conference “Recent history and its untold stories in open-air museums” on 19-21 October 2022 to exchange corresponding experiences with fellow museums in the Association of European Open Air Museums as well as colleagues in Estonia.

The conference begins with an optional study excursion introducing the architectural heritage of the Soviet period in rural areas (on pre-booking). During the two days of the main conference, you will be given the opportunity to listen to different topical presentations and take part in peer-to-peer learning, explore the Estonian Open Air Museum, and get acquainted with the new Kolkhoz apartment building. You can also take part in the museum’s 65th jubilee party, meet colleagues, and find new contacts. Lunches, coffee breaks, and dinner on 20 October are included in the conference fee.

Conference language: English

For additional information: https://evm.ee/visitors/conference-recent-history-and-its-untold-stories-in-open-air-museums