From June 2017, Moomins, the beloved Finnish icons created by Tove Jansson, will be on display at a dedicated museum in Tampere Hall.

The only museum of its kind, Moominvalley Museum, will present the world of the Moomin books in a completely new way.

Inspired by Tove Jansson’s original Moomin illustrations, the first exhibition will show up to 300 drawings and paintings as well as around 30 diorama scenes.

From humble beginnings in comic strips and books, the white, hippo-like creatures have grown into a worldwide phenomenon through puppet animations and Japanese-style cartoons.

The Moomins now adorn the wings of the Finnish airline Finnair, the iconic mugs of Arabia, and the premium bedding of Finlayson.

“Moomins are ingrained in Finnish culture and have inspired several generations. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy discovering the rich history of the iconic characters,” said Eva Kiviranta, media coordinator UK & US, Visit Finland.

Currently housed at the Tampere Art Museum, the Moominvalley Museum will be transferred to the Tampere Hall Congress and Concert Centre following extensive refurbishment.

New event and meeting areas will be joined by refreshed restaurant and cafeteria services in time for the opening.

Ahead of the museum launch, a reading library boasting Moomin books in over 20 languages and works focusing on Tove Jansson has opened.

The collection includes some historical gems and the library is constantly expanding.

The Tampere Hall shop includes Moomin articles and books as well as Tampere-inspired products.

Postcards sent from Tampere Hall bear a Moomin stamp and the special Moomin Museum postmark.

The beginning of November saw the opening of the Making of Moomin Museum exhibition at the Tampere Hall Winter Garden.

The exhibition creatively tells the story of building the new museum and will be open until the launch of the Moominvalley Museum.