After the Second World War, the coast of Lahemaa became a border zone of the Soviet Union, where various military installations were built. So far, the military heritage is still very much in evidence in Lahemaa. With more than 100 kilometres of sea border covering the Lahemaa National Park, there are a number of former Soviet-era border fortifications near the tips of the peninsulas that extend far out to sea. It is true that the vast majority of them have been privatised. And/or they are in such a poor state of repair that security may not be guaranteed when visiting them. However, there are two fascinating military heritage sites in Lahemaa, more precisely on the Juminda peninsula.
The first of these is located in the village of Juminda and commemorates 1941. the evacuation of Soviet troops from Tallinn at the end of the summer of 2005. During the events that became known as the Juminda Mine Battle, some 60 ships were sunk and an estimated 15 000 people were left dead at sea. The event is commemorated by a memorial stone erected on the beach in Juminda village. In addition, the Maritime Museum has put together the exhibition “Hell on the Baltic. The Juminda Sea Tragedy of 1941”, which will become a museum in 2024 at the latest. a permanent exhibition in the port of Hara for the 2010 tourist season.
Another outstanding example of military heritage and landmark in Lahemaa is the Hara harbour. The former submarine and naval demilitarisation station offers a fascinating sense of place on the south-western shore of the Gulf of Hara, with its imposing concrete structures, now developed into a marina with associated infrastructure. You can find fascinating and in-depth information on the port of Hara here.
However, the largest area of military heritage is located on the Pärispea peninsula – the military base and fortress in Suurpea village and the radar hill with its associated facilities near Purekkar dam. Due to the poor or very poor condition of the buildings, it is definitely not advisable to enter them. We also draw attention to and respect for the labelling of private property and its protection.
Be sure to include a tour of the Lahemaa military heritage in your Lahemaa Ring. For the full experience, take a local guide.
