mälestusalbum

A mälestusalbum, which translates from Estonian as "memory album," is a type of scrapbook or collection of mementos typically created to commemorate a significant event, person, or period. These albums serve as a tangible repository for personal histories and cherished memories. They often contain a variety of items, such as photographs, letters, postcards, ticket stubs, dried flowers, and handwritten notes.

The creation of a mälestusalbum can be a solitary or a collaborative endeavor. Families might assemble one to document a wedding, a child's birth, or a milestone anniversary. Individuals might create them to preserve memories of a trip, a school year, or a friendship. The process of gathering and arranging these items is often as meaningful as the final product, allowing for reflection and reminiscence.

Unlike a formal photo album, a mälestusalbum embraces a more eclectic and personal aesthetic. The emphasis is on the emotional resonance of the included items, fostering a unique narrative that goes beyond simple chronological documentation. These albums can become treasured heirlooms, passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into the past and the lives of those who came before. The term itself evokes a sense of nostalgia and sentimental value.