Cold War Museum
Telšių apskritis
The Cold War Museum, located within Žemaitija National Park in Lithuania, is uniquely situated in a former Soviet Union ballistic missile silo complex known as the Plokštinė missile base. Established officially in 2012, it is the first museum in Lithuania dedicated to presenting the Cold War epoch and its impact on Europe and Lithuania. From 1963 to 1978, this site housed four SS-4 Sandal medium-range ballistic missiles armed with 2-megaton thermonuclear warheads aimed at Western Europe. The museum's exhibits include authentic Cold War military equipment, models of combat missiles, photographs, video projections, and sound installations that illustrate the secretive Soviet nuclear weapons program and military technology of the era. Despite much original equipment being vandalized after Soviet troops withdrew, the museum features restored infrastructure including a visitor center and observation platform. The exhibition was developed with support from the European Union and shaped by fortification historian Vladimir Orlov, with architectural design by TAEM Architects. It offers a compelling insight into the militarization and nuclear threat during the Cold War, making it a significant cultural and historical site in Lithuania.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours before visiting and consider booking guided tours in advance, as excursions are available upon prior arrangement. The best time to visit is during late spring to early autumn when the outdoor areas and observation platform are most accessible. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the missile base grounds and bring a camera to capture the unique military exhibits and views.
Interesting facts
- •The museum is housed in a former Soviet Union ballistic missile silo complex known as Plokštinė missile base.
- •Between 1963 and 1978, the site housed four SS-4 Sandal medium-range ballistic missiles armed with 2-megaton thermonuclear warheads.
- •It is the first museum in Lithuania dedicated to the Cold War period and nuclear weapons history.
- •The museum's exhibition includes authentic military equipment, missile models, photographs, and multimedia presentations.
- •Much of the original equipment was vandalized after the Soviet troops left, leading to extensive restoration efforts supported by the European Union.
History
The Cold War Museum is located at the site of the former Plokštinė missile base, established by the Soviet Union after World War II during the Cold War.
From 1963 to 1978, it hosted SS-4 Sandal missiles armed with thermonuclear warheads.
After the Soviet military withdrawal, the base was abandoned and partially vandalized.
The museum project was initiated by the Žemaitija National Park Directorate and officially opened in 2012, aiming to educate about the Cold War's impact and nuclear threats.
The restoration and exhibition were supported by European Union funding, reflecting Lithuania's efforts to preserve this unique historical military site.
Place Guide
Missile Silo Complex1963-1978
Explore the underground missile silo where SS-4 Sandal ballistic missiles were housed during the Cold War, providing a rare glimpse into Soviet nuclear military infrastructure.
Visitor Center and Exhibition Hall2012
The administrative building and exhibition space feature authentic Cold War military equipment, models of missiles, and multimedia displays explaining the nuclear threat and Cold War history.
Observation Platform2012
An outdoor viewing platform allows visitors to appreciate the surrounding landscape of Žemaitija National Park and understand the strategic location of the missile base.
Contact
Phone: (0-677) 86574