Museum of Finnish Architecture

Museum of Finnish Architecture

Finnish architecture has long enjoyed an outstanding reputation in Europe, and its capital, Helsinki, was named the World Design Capital in 2012. Right in Helsinki, there is a specialized museum dedicated to architecture — the Museum of Finnish Architecture. Established in 1956, it is the second oldest architecture museum in the world.

The Museum of Finnish Architecture was built during Finland’s rapid development in the 1950s, a time when there was a surge of interest in how to develop architecture, build cities, and improve urban planning. Its initial purpose was simple: to serve professionals. There was a need for an institution that could support professionals, as completed works required exhibition and exchange. The earliest collections mainly consisted of architectural drawings gathered by the Finnish Association of Architects. The museum is housed in a neoclassical building constructed in 1899, designed by architect Magnus Schjerfbeck, and was renovated between 1980 and 1981 for use as the Museum of Finnish Architecture.

The Museum of Finnish Architecture houses an extensive collection of architectural archives, including approximately 100,000 printed items, 30,000 slides, around 300,000 original drawings by Finnish architects, and models of some iconic architectural works. The museum also has its own library, publishes books on architecture, and offers books at its museum bookstore at lower prices than elsewhere.

Museum of Finnish Architecture

Must-visit reason: One of the oldest architecture museums in the world

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Finland[Finland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Uusimaa Region [Uusimaa Region]

City where the attraction is located: Helsinki [Helsinki]