Art galleries exhibition spaces foundations and cultural centers Finnish Lapland

A must-see cultural and architectural site in Rovaniemi, with its glass roof stretching over 170 m along the banks of the Ounasjoki River. Comprising the Arctic Center of the University of Rovaniemi and the Provincial Museum of Lapland, the complex is dedicated to the nature and cultures of the peoples of the Far North. History is not forgotten, with the painful episode of the Second World War: in October 1944, the German army destroyed 90% of Rovaniemi.

It's hard not to be impressed by the quality of the exhibits and the educational aspect of the displays. We learn a whole host of things, from the fact that "Arctic" comes from Arktikos in Sami, meaning "land of the great bear", to the fact that the giant crab was introduced by man into the Barents Sea, throwing the entire ecosystem out of balance. In short, this entertaining tour is highly instructive. Everyday objects are on display, and good films are shown to help you learn more about the Sami people. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

The museum regularly offers temporary exhibitions, which are less costly to enter (usually 5 euros), and allow you to rediscover the site over and over again. They also offer a less time-consuming and different approach to the museum, for visitors in a hurry who would still like to enter this incredible building. It's a must-see!

Little bonus: the café-restaurant in the center is delicious! Perfect for a gourmet break after your visit.

The Finns are also gifted with talented designers. This design house, created by a passionate couple, Hanneli and Pekka Sillfors, opened its doors in 2005. Set in the heart of nature, its workshop and showroom are housed in a handsome wooden building complete with a Lappish tent. Here you'll discover the full range of contemporary design: glass, wood, metal and lighting in all shapes and materials. The exhibition changes every year, with several designers in the spotlight each time.

This café-gallery is absolutely exceptional. Lea Kaulanen and her husband Juha have turned it into a magical place with a warm and enchanting folklore atmosphere. This is due to the fact that Lea and Juha make puppets representing the maahinen, small forest dwellers from the Lappish legends. You can have a coffee in the big warm room, on the wooden tables, while tasting one of Lea's tasty pastries. And you can't miss listening to her tell one of the legends of the Lappish forest.

Nearly 3,000 precious and semi-precious stones are kept in this interesting gallery, which does not look like much. Upstairs, there is also a mini-exhibition on the jewels adorning the most famous European crowns, including the real crown of the King of Finland. For each jewel, there is an explanation with a bit of history. Also reproduction of the jewels of the crown of Elizabeth II and the necklace of Marie-Antoinette.

This beautiful cultural center, clad in wood and glass, is home to the Saami Parliament. Created in 1996, its mission is to provide for and implement the autonomy of the Sami as an aboriginal people in matters of culture and language. It is composed of 21 members elected every 4 years. Norway and Sweden have had their own Saami parliaments since 1989 and 1993 respectively. A council with the 3 parliaments has been in operation since 2000. There's a nice cafeteria on site for a gourmet break, as well as a pretty craft store and regularly organized photo exhibitions and concerts.

Opened in December 2011, this small Samiland museum is an opportunity to discover the traditional way of life of the Sami people, through indoor exhibitions (500^m2) and also outdoors with its 10,000^m2. An interesting visit to better understand the past of this people, so important in Finland and in the region. On the spot, we travel thanks to the old costumes presented, to the numerous photos and objects but also thanks to the diffused videos. It is possible to book a guided tour. There is a café and restaurant on site.

At the heart of this house, as its name suggests, you'll discover the northern lights. We start with the history of the aurora borealis, with a 45-minute film and photos explaining the ancient beliefs surrounding this phenomenon, right up to the latest scientific studies. If the weather and all other conditions are right, they also organize evening excursions to admire them, as the surrounding area is free of light pollution. A unique opportunity to learn more about a wonderful natural phenomenon!

Alvar Aalto's work, which once again imposes his touch. A beautiful cultural hall for both theatre and concerts. The congress centre has three halls for concerts, cocktail parties, conferences and all kinds of events. In its largest room, it can accommodate up to 419 people. You can also see the library located opposite, which has been extensively redesigned according to the plans of the master architect (1965). Aesthetics and practicality are combined to perfection. Superb work on the light in particular.