Parola Tank Museum: A Dream Come True for WWII Enthusiasts

Some time ago, I finally fulfilled a long-held dream: visiting the Parola Tank Museum in Finland. For a fan of World War II history like myself, seeing so many legendary tanks up close was an unforgettable experience. Walking among these historic vehicles brought vivid emotions that photos or books could never replicate. Seeing the King Tiger in person was truly awe-inspiring; I hadn’t realized how massive it is—standing next to it, the T-34 looked like a light tank in comparison!

The Parola Tank Museum showcases a fantastic collection both outdoors and inside spacious hangars, allowing visitors to explore tanks in different settings.

Highlights of the Parola Tank Museum Collection

The museum’s exhibits include some of the most iconic tanks and armored vehicles from WWII and beyond. Here are just a few of the highlights you’ll find:

• King Tiger (Tiger II)
• T-34 – the renowned Soviet tank
• Panzer IV – a German medium tank used extensively in WWII
• BT-42 – a Finnish modification of the Soviet BT-7
• T-26 – Soviet light tank
• ISU-152 – Soviet self-propelled gun, also known as the “Beast Killer”
• Leopard 2A4 – a modern German battle tank
• Charioteer – British tank destroyer
• Sturmpanzer IV Brummbär – German assault tank
• Patria AMV – Finnish armored modular vehicle

These tanks and many more are on display, allowing visitors to appreciate their size, design, and unique histories.

About the Parola Tank Museum

The Parola Tank Museum, located near Hämeenlinna, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Finland’s armored vehicle history. Founded in 1961, it houses a remarkable collection of tanks, self-propelled guns, and other military vehicles, focusing especially on those used by the Finnish Army. The museum is popular among history buffs, with both indoor and outdoor exhibits that capture the evolution of armored vehicles from WWII to the present day.

Why You Should Visit

If you’re a fan of WWII history or military vehicles, the Parola Tank Museum should be at the top of your travel list. For those who enjoy scale modeling, the museum provides a unique chance to study tank details and design up close. Every vehicle has its own story, and standing next to these historic giants is an experience you won’t soon forget.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Finland, I highly recommend adding the Parola Tank Museum to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed—it’s an unforgettable journey through the past and a treasure trove for enthusiasts of military history.