Kuopio

Introducing Kuopio

One of the most likeable towns in Finland, Kuopio is a very satisfying place that seems to combine several Suomi essentials - ski-jumps, forest, lakes, saunas, - in one neat package. It's a vibrant place with lots to see and do and enjoys a beautiful location, which can be surveyed from atop the famous Puijo tower. The ferry trip between Savonlinna and Kuopio also makes this a prime destination in summer. Time your visit so you can steam it up in the world's biggest smoke sauna, Jätkänkämppä!

Although not a huge place, Kuopio sprawls over a large area and manages to exude the atmosphere of a city while retaining the charm of a lake town. The university keeps things lively on the intellectual and nightlife fronts, while the annual international dance festival adds to Kuopio's sophistication.

The first Savonian people entered the area at the end of the 15th century, and in 1552 the first church was built. In 1652 Count Per Brahe founded the 'church village' of Kuopio, which had little significance until 1775, when Gustav III of Sweden incorporated Kuopio as a provincial capital. A few important figures of the National Romantic era lived here from the 1850s, but the main growth of Kuopio was in the 20th century.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009