The Civil Guard and Lotta Svärd Museum

Located in the very center of Seinäjoki, the Civil Guard and Lotta Svärd Museum offers a unique glimpse into Finland’s voluntary national defense history. The museum is housed in buildings designed by renowned architect Alvar Aalto in the 1920s, originally built as the headquarters for the South Ostrobothnia Civil Guard District and the residence of its leader, Matti Laurila. Today, the complex and its courtyard form a nationally significant cultural environment protected under Finnish heritage law.

The main exhibition In Service of the Homeland showcases the voluntary defense work of the Civil Guard, the Lotta Svärd women’s organization, and the Jäger movement. Visitors can also explore personal belongings from Laurila’s home, while display cases in the downstairs hall present the activities of Finnish heritage associations.

In the outbuilding, you’ll find the Mannerheim’s Headquarters in Seinäjoki, 1918 exhibition as well as space for rotating temporary exhibitions.

The museum’s inner courtyard features the Civil Guardsman statue by sculptor Pentti Papinaho, along with a relief of a Lotta and a Civil Guard Boy.

The museum regularly hosts guided tours, events, and workshops. The downstairs hall in the main building is available for rent for meetings, seminars, and lectures. Group visits can also include coffee service. The museum shop offers a selection of books, postcards, and exhibition-themed items.