Field Study Finland

History

Explore Helsinki, the city planner's paradise. Discover strange traditions, famous architect Alvar Aalto, and unique curiosities that make Helsinki a captivating destination.

Helsinki: A City Planner

Introduction

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a city that beautifully combines its rich history with forward-thinking urban planning. From its bizarre traditions to famous Finns and unique curiosities, Helsinki offers a truly remarkable experience for visitors. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating aspects of Helsinki's city planning and showcase the expertise and authority behind this remarkable city.

Bizarre Traditions in Helsinki

Picnicking on Graves

One of the peculiar traditions in Helsinki is picnicking on graves. It may sound strange, but it is a way for the locals to honor their departed loved ones. Families gather to enjoy a meal amidst the serene surroundings of the cemetery, creating a meaningful connection with their ancestors. This unique custom showcases the deep-rooted respect for history and tradition that permeates the city.

Famous Finns: Architect Alvar Aalto

Alvar Aalto's Architectural Legacy

Alvar Aalto, a renowned Finnish architect, has made a significant impact on Helsinki's cityscape. His distinct style, characterized by organic forms, functionality, and harmony with nature, can be seen in numerous buildings across the city. Examples of his masterpieces include Finlandia Hall, the Kulttuuritalo (House of Culture), and the iconic Paimio Sanatorium. Aalto's innovation and vision have shaped Helsinki into a city known for its architectural marvels.

Unique Curiosities in Helsinki

Church Built Inside a Giant Granite Rock: Temppeliaukio Church

One of the most fascinating attractions in Helsinki is the Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Church in the Rock. This extraordinary place of worship was designed by architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and completed in 1969. What makes this church truly unique is that it is built directly into a massive granite rock, giving it a distinctive appearance both inside and out. The natural light flowing through the skylight enhances the serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

A Statue that Seagulls Hate: Havis Amanda

Havis Amanda, a statue located in Helsinki's Market Square, is infamous for its contentious relationship with seagulls. This bronze sculpture depicts a mermaid rising from the sea and symbolizes the rebirth of Helsinki as a city by the sea. However, seagulls often perch on the statue and create quite a mess, leading to mixed emotions among locals and visitors. Despite the ongoing battle between the seagulls and the statue, Havis Amanda remains a significant landmark in Helsinki's history.

A 19th-Century Bohemian Hangout: Kallio District

Helsinki's Kallio district is a vibrant neighborhood that has preserved its bohemian charm from the 19th century. This former working-class area is now a hub of creativity, filled with quirky cafes, vintage shops, and street art. The Kallio district is an excellent place to experience Helsinki's alternative culture and mingle with the locals. Whether you're looking for live music, independent boutiques, or a relaxed atmosphere, Kallio has it all.

Conclusion

Helsinki's city planning showcases a perfect harmony between preserving the past and embracing the future. The city's bizarre traditions, famous Finns like architect Alvar Aalto, and unique curiosities such as the Temppeliaukio Church, Havis Amanda statue, and the Kallio district, all contribute to the experience, expertise, authority, and trust that Helsinki exudes. By blending rich historical elements with forward-thinking urban design, Helsinki has transformed itself into a destination that truly captivates visitors from around the world.

Helsinki, Finland, Europe

Overview
Rate Average 52.34 USD
Get a fresh perspective on Helsinki on this quirky small-group tour, led by a city planner. Discover bizarre traditions, such as picnicking on graves, famous Finns, such as architect Alvar Aalto, and curios, such as a church built inside a giant granite rock, a statue that seagulls hate, and a 19th-century Bohemian hangout. Leave with an understanding of the city that you won’t get from guidebooks or everyday organized tours. Off-the-path walking tour of downtown Helsinki, led by a city planner Packed with cultural insights, from food to history, from religion to soccer Numbers are capped at just eight travelers, for more guide interaction Great choice for visitors who’ve already seen the big-ticket sights

Meeting Venue

 

Scandic Seinajoki

Star Rating 4

Address Kauppakatu 10 Seinajoki 60100 Finland Europe 

Rate 7.4 USD

Overview

Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Seinajoki, Cumulus Seinjoki promises a relaxing and wonderful visit. The property features a wide range of facilities to make your stay a pleasant experience. 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests, luggage storage, room service, meeting facilities are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Comfortable guestrooms ensure a good night's sleep with some rooms featuring facilities such as air conditioning, heating, desk, mini bar, telephone. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. A welcoming atmosphere and excellent service are what you can expect during your stay at Cumulus Seinajoki.

 

Scandic Hyvinkaa

Star Rating 3 

Address Hameenkatu 2-4 Hyvinkaa 5800 Finland Europe 

Rate 7.8 USD

Overview

Set in a prime location of Hyvinkaa, Cumulus Hyvinkaa puts everything the city has to offer just outside your doorstep. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, newspapers, laundry service, bar are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Guestrooms are fitted with all the amenities you need for a good night's sleep. In some of the rooms, guests can find air conditioning, heating, desk, television, satellite/cable TV. To enhance guests' stay, the hotel offers recreational facilities such as sauna, golf course (within 3 km). Friendly staff, great facilities and close proximity to all that Hyvinkaa has to offer are three great reasons you should stay at Cumulus Hyvinkaa.

 

Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund

Star Rating 3

Address Eerikinkatu 11 Turku 20100 Finland Europe

Rate 7.7 USD

Overview

The 3-star Original Sokos Hotel City Bars offers comfort and convenience whether you're on business or holiday in Turku. Both business travelers and tourists can enjoy the hotel's facilities and services. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at the Original Sokos Hotel City Bars. All rooms are designed and decorated to make guests feel right at home, and some rooms come with heating, wake-up service, desk, telephone, television LCD/plasma screen. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Original Sokos Hotel City Bars is an excellent choice from which to explore Turku or to simply relax and rejuvenate.

 

Crowne Plaza Helsinki

Star Rating 4

Address  Mannerheimintie 50 Helsinki 260 Uusimaa Finland Europe 

Rete 8.6 USD

Overview

Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Tala, Crowne Plaza Helsinki promises a relaxing and wonderful visit. Both business travelers and tourists can enjoy the hotel's facilities and services. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at the Crowne Plaza Helsinki. Television LCD/plasma screen, internet access wireless, internet access wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms, air conditioning can be found in selected guestrooms. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. For reliable service and professional staff, Crowne Plaza Helsinki caters to your needs.