Arppeanum, Helsinki

The Arppeanum is the name of the Helsinki University Museum. This museum opened in 2009 when separate collections of the University were brought together under one roof. Collections include objects from the schools of medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy, dentistry, and also objects of handicraft science.

In addition to the permanent collections, there are also traveling exhibits that are changed out throughout the year. Two permanent collections that are fascinating are those involving the history of Finland while under the control of Sweden and Russia. An extensive art collection is shown. Among these are full length paintings of the Russian emperors from the 19th century that ruled over Finland.

This is a must see museum for anyone who is interested in the healing sciences. The various collections are a wonderful look into the progression of medicine over the years. The pharmacy collection shows the different glass vials used in compounding and dispensing medications before the advent of plastics. Exhibits also include a look at typical patient treatment rooms in the late 19th century.

Exquisite works of hand crafted art works are also displayed. One particular favorite is a work of embroidery on silk that covered a box that was part of the World’s Fair in 1900. The mineral cabinet has also been moved here from another museum in town. It is a collection of rocks, minerals and meteorites from around Finland.