Haabjakoda — dugout canoe exhibition and workshop

Discover the ancient story of the haabjas, Soomaa’s traditional dugout canoe, in Tori’s historic fire brigade building. Haabjakoda invites you on an exciting journey where building traditions, history, and modern craftsmanship come to life.

The exhibition takes the visitor deep into the roots of the cultural space of Soomaa National Park. You will learn about the significance of the dugout canoe to the inhabitants of the Pärnu River Basin and how the historical Pärnu-Peipsi-Istanbul waterway unfolded. Here, the reasons the unique Soomaa haabjas canoe culture is listed on the prestigious UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list are revealed.

From cultural experience to active recreation — after a thorough overview in the workshop, the experience doesn’t have to be limited to observation. For an additional fee, there is a great opportunity to rent an authentic dugout canoe and set out on an unforgettable ride on the Tori River to experience this ancient way of movement firsthand.

Enhance your holiday with a true cultural gem! Book your visit and come experience the living history of Soomaa National Park!

The exhibition takes visitors deep into the UNESCO-listed cultural roots of Soomaa National Park. Come and learn about the significance of the dugout canoe to the inhabitants of the Pärnu River Basin.