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Tampere, nestling between two beautiful
 Romantic old manor house |
Hatanpään puistokuja 1 Tampere 33900 Finland +358 3 222 6261 |
The name Hatanpää is one of the oldest in the Tampere area, and the village of Hatanpää, consisting then of three houses, is mentioned already in the oldest preserved land register from the year 1540. In 1698 the houses were joined into one, and the first main building of Hatanpää Manor was built during baron Hans Henrik Boije's time (1758-1778). The old wooden building was destroyed in a fire at the time when counsellor Nils Johan Idman was squire of the Manor. The new Hatanpää Manor was built in 1883-1885. The style of the building is mostly Neo-Renaissance, but there are also some Baroque traits in the façade. A wonderful rose garden has been built on the spot where the manor's orchard used to be, and the Hatanpää Arboretum was also later established in the area. The so-called Vapaamuurarin Hauta (the Freemason's Grave), an old stone onto which a Gospel verse (the Freemasons' motto) has been engraved in Greek, is in the park. Villa Idman is also within the manor area, built for bank manager Idman in 1898. After running Hatanpää Manor for almost a hundred years, the Idman family got into financial trouble, and so the whole Manor and the area were handed over to the city of Tampere in 1913. Later, Hatanpää Hospital was added to the manor area. Today a Museum of Dolls and Costumes operates in the Hatanpää Manor main building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Green oasis in the centre of the city |
Hatanpään puistokuja Tampere 33900 Finland |
The four-hectare area of Hatanpää Arboretum contains over 500 plant species, a rock garden, a wonderful rose garden, the magnificent Hatanpää Manor and the charming Villa Idman. The park is extremely popular, and for a good reasons. It is a perfect place for a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Benches and tables are provided for those who come equipped with a picnic basket. The arboretum is a botanical garden, so those horticulturally inclined will find information boards with each plant's name and exact location. Most of the plants in the Arboretum are indigenous to the Tampere area, but there are also more exotic and rare species. The rose garden grows on the spot where the Hatanpää Manor orchard used to be (there are still some remnants, mainly plum and apple trees). Most of the rose species blossom between late July and the end of September. In the small café next to the rose garden you can buy refreshments and just sit back and enjoy the scenery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Fun in the snow for the whole family |
Turtolankatu Tampere 33710 Finland +358 3 318 0123 http://www.tampereenrinteet.fi/ |
There are three slopes with different difficulty levels at Hervanta Ski Center, on which the whole family can enjoy skiing on a beautiful winter's day. A skiing school is available for those who are yet unfamiliar with the art of slalom. The ski centre hires out equipment(slalom sets, snowboards and shoes), so it is not necessary to bring your own skis and shoes. Lift passes for two hours cost EUR11 for adults, EUR8 for children. The skiing season is dependent on the weather conditions, so it pays to call before going, especially in the spring. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: HuaQin NG |
 Photo: Ari-Pekka Verta |
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Peaceful spot within the buzzing city |
Koskipuisto Tampere 33100 Finland http://www.tampere.fi/ytoteto/... |
Many people would say this park is one of the most romantic spots in Tampere. Located in the centre of the city, it still retains a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. Against the roar of Tammerkoski rapids it is easy to imagine yourself far away from the hassle of the surrounding city. The amazingly colourful flowers in Koskipuisto, especially the gorgeous flaming-red canna lilies create a striking contrast to the thundering Tammerkoski rapids. The statues in Koskipuisto include Shepherd Boy by Yrjö Liipola, Swans by Jussi Mäntynen and the monument to the Finnish soldier, Will-o'-the-wisps by Aimo Tukiainen. There is a separate children's playground attached to Koskipuisto park, built according to the wishes of children who took part in a competition organized specifically for the design of the playground. An interesting tradition in Koskipuisto is the baptism of the teekkari on the First of May in Finnish. During the "baptism", hundreds of people gather on Hämeensilta bridge to watch first-year technical students at the Tampere University of Technology being dipped into the ice-cold waters of the Tammerkoski rapids. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mikko Aho |
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Outdoor market with a nice view |
Laukontori Tampere 33100 Finland |
Also known as Alaranta, Laukontori is a popular outdoor market square in Tampere. Although it isn't as busy as Tammelantori, it is well worth a visit because of its excellent location in the centre of the city, right by the harbour. In summertime the stalls are rich with fresh vegetables and plants. Locals go there to have some mustamakkara (a kind of sausage Tampere is famous for) or a cup of coffee in one of the small outdoor cafés. Laukontori is also known for the annual fish market. This is definitely the place to visit on a warm summer's day. Watch the boats leave for Viikinsaari and have an ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Jalonen |
 Photo: Lauri Gratseff |
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Busy and colourful summer harbour |
Mustalahti Tampere 33230 Finland |
Mustalahti harbour is in the heart of Tampere, at the southern end of lake Näsijärvi. It has played an important role in lake traffic ever since the establishment of the city of Tampere. Some ships and boats are permanently moored in the harbour, but Mustalahti is also extremely popular among visitors. There are 35 moorings in the harbor. The old storehouse building contains toilets, sauna and showers, washing room, hydrant, electricity and a waste bin. You can shop at the Mustalahti harbour marketplace throughout the summer. The restaurants offer many kinds of services, from breakfast to more festive dinner parties. The traditional Café Ankkuri offers food and drink, souvenirs and everyday goods such as shampoo and soap. It is also possible to book the use of a sauna or pay for the guest mooring here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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History and high tech |
Harjukatu 23 PL 2 Tampere 37101 Finland +358 3 341 8111 http://www.nokiankaupunki.fi/ |
Nokia is a small town of 26,000 inhabitants that lies about 15km west of the Tampere city centre. For centuries Nokia belonged to the old Greater Pirkkala, but seceded in 1922, when the area was still called Northern Pirkkala. The place was named Nokia in 1938. Most often associated with telecommunications, Nokia's true history begins here. When in town, it's worth visiting the old redbrick factory buildings in which the success and global growth of Nokia Corp began over a hundred years ago. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Berat Flugaj |
 Photo: Vinay Deep  |
 Photo: David Young |
 Photo: Steve Ward |
 Photo: Riitta Nieminen-Sund |
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Highest observation tower in the Nordic countries |
Särkänniemi Tampere 33230 Finland +358 3 248 8111 http://www.sarkanniemi.fi/engl... |
One of the best-known landmarks of Tampere, the tower commands spectacular views in all directions. Even the lift to the indoor lookout terrace(at a height of 120 meters) is an adventure, as the lift moves at six meters per second. The whole ride up takes 27 seconds. You can rent binoculars at the terrace and enjoy the scenery, or relax at the café. There is also an outdoor terrace nine meters below; you'll be surprised at how hard the wind blows at that altitude. Hours vary, so check ahead. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: *LML* |
 Photo: Aapo Laitinen |
 Photo: David Harding |
 Photo: Joe Carroll |
 Photo: Pekka Oksanen |
 Photo: Stéphane Lecorney |
 Photo: savannara |
 Photo: Maria K. |
 Photo: hydris |
 Photo: Sami M. Leppanen |
 Photo: iTuomas |
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Colourful as a quilt |
Pispalan harju Tampere 33250 Finland |
Pispala district on the Pispala ridge was founded in the late nineteenth century. No one actually planned this district - settlers just built their little cottages along the slopes in the manner they liked and could afford. This is why Pispala is a very colourful and peculiar housing district with small houses built very close to each other. The area is now protected by a building plan, so that its unique look will be preserved for future generations. Pispala is no longer a workers' district but more famous for its artists, authors and musicians. The plots are understandably very expensive here, because of the magnificent views over lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: StaneStane |
 Photo: StaneStane |
 Photo: Eduardo Santana |
 Photo: chiara Megghina |
 Photo: M. Karttunen |
 Photo: Karri Niinivaara |
 Photo: Kontioreppu |
 Photo: John theFinn |
 Photo: terhox |
 Photo: Conor Lennon |
 Photo: pomo |
 Photo: hartzam2008 |
 Photo: Marjo Pipinen |
 Old cemetery rich in atmosphere |
Pyynikin kirkkopuisto Tampere 33200 Finland |
The old Pyynikki churchyard is always beautiful, in a very melancholy sort of way. Maybe it cannot boast with as many flowers and colours as the other parks in Tampere, but there is still much to see. It was the first cemetery in Tampere, the only one between 1785 and the 1880s. The graves are now covered by lawns and paths, and it is hard to realise at first that you are walking on holy ground. However, old, rusty iron crosses and mossy tombstones pop up here and there and will soon catch your attention. Among those who have found their final resting place here is mayor Fredrik Adam Sacklén, in 1866. There is also a small square, next to Hämeenpuisto park, in the middle of which is a fountain decorated with the statue Spring by W.R. Rautalin, in 1936. The Alexander Church, standing tall in middle of the graveyard, was completed in 1880. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: falsummatti |
 Photo: roibradbury |
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The main stadium in Tampere |
Suvantokatu Tampere 33100 Finland +358 3 212 2194 |
This large stadium, completed in 1965 and usually simply called Ratina, is undoubtedly one of the focal points of sports in Tampere. Many athletes train here daily. With a capacity of 25,000 spectators, Ratina is the obvious venue for any big event in athletics. One of the best annual track meetings in the country is organised here by Tampereen Pyrintö, and the stadium has also hosted the Finnish national championships on several occasions, most recently in 1996. The biggest football clubs play in Tammela, but plenty of matches are played in Ratina as well, by women and junior teams in particular. Hidden inside the main stands are the best training facilities in the city for gymnastics and wrestling, as well as a fully equipped gym. Opening hours depend on the event schedule. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Pritchard |
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Rich in atmosphere and known for quality |
Kehräsaari Tampere 33100 Finland |
The name Kehräsaari (Spindle Island) comes from the wool-spinning factory whose buildings this shopping and business centre now occupies. The oldest part of Kehräsaari was built in 1897. Kehräsaari is an extremely charming place to visit. For instance, Aarikka Joulupuu, Tampereen Kulta- ja Jalokivipaja and Savipaja Päivi Väätäinen attract visitors to buy unique and often handmade gifts. Also, maritime restaurant Hook, restaurant Sylvester, pub and wine bar Fall's Café and cinema Niagara operate in Kehräsaari. A pedestrian brigde crosses the Tammerkoski rapids from Kehräsaari to the eastern side of Tampere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Life underwater |
Särkänniemi Tampere 33230 Finland +358 3 248 8111 http://www.sarkanniemi.fi/ |
It is all about underwater adventures at Särkänniemi Aquarium. Here, you can stare into the eyes of a huge catfish and marvel at the scary piranhas. There are also some very poisonous fish in the Aquarium. One of these is the Bullhead (Gottus Gobio) fish, which is very difficult to spot among the stones in the bottom of the tank. In addition to the fish, there are also various kinds of turtles and lizards. The selection of different species varies every year in the Aquarium. Also, the decoration of the tanks is changed every now and then. However, the most important thing is that the fish and other marine creatures can live in an environment that keeps them healthy and is as close to their natural environment as possible. There are also several information signs, from which you can find out lots of useful information about the animals and their life. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Outdoor market with a long history |
Tammelantori Tampere 33500 Finland |
Tammelantori is the town's most popular marketplace and for many people the one and only place. Outdoor market trading started here as early as the beginning of the twentieth century. In summer, stalls fill the square early in the morning. There are vegetables, plants, handcrafts and clothes. You don't need to go hungry: the outdoor cafés and stalls offer something for everyone. You should taste the various fish dishes or the famous mustamakkara (a kind of sausage Tampere is famous for). You might find something you like in the flea-market part of the square where anyone can come, pay for a table and sell their things. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kristian Malm |
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Hugo Simberg's brave vision |
Tuomiokirkonkatu 3 Tampere 33100 Finland +358 3 219 0265 |
Tampere Cathedral, one of the city's best-known sites, aroused vehement debates when it was built at the beginning of the twentieth century. The daring paintings by famous Finnish artist Hugo Simberg, inside the church, caused controversy with visions of snakes, naked boys and skeletons. Of course, this has made the building popular internationally. The church is used by the Cathedral Congregation and the Diocese of Tampere (one of Finland's eight Dioceses) as their primary place of worship. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Miikka Tuori |
 Photo: Kimmo Pirkkalainen |
 Photo: Dan Morgan |
 Photo: Lisa Fendelander |
 Photo: Megan Thruston |
 Photo: Becky |
 Photo: Orsolya Gyenes |
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Bringing Finnish Nature to the City |
Pirkankatu 2 Tampere 33101 Finland +358 3 314 614 http://www.tampere.fi/kirjasto... |
Tampere City Library, Metso, is a distinctive and memorable building. It is also the central library of the province of Pirkanmaa. The building has been named Metso because from a bird's eye perspective the building looks like a wood grouse (metso in Finnish). The library was designed by architects Reima and Raili Pietilä, very famous and well respected in their field. In addition to Metso, they have also designed Mäntyniemi, the official residence of the President of Finland. Metso is the most visited library in Finland, with 5,000-6,000 visitors every day. There are 1.1 million books and 91,000 recordings in the library. There are also lecture rooms, a café and an office that distributes EU information to the people of Tampere in the library. On the lower ground floor are the Moomin Valley Museum and Tampere Mineral Museum (entrance is from the Hämeenpuisto side of the building). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maurelita Pligaa |
 Photo: Piia Anneli Lehto |
 Photo: falsummatti |
 Photo: YSL ToDay |
 Photo: Ivonne De la Guardia |
 Photo: Samuel Green |
 Photo: jyrki ahonen |
 The oldest independent bookshop in Tampere |
Hämeenkatu 27 Tampere 33201 Finland +358 3 212 8380 |
Tampereen Kirjakauppa can boast of a real history. It is the oldest independent bookshop in Tampere and still occupies the same beautiful building at Hämeenkatu 27. Paper and office products can be found on the street level of this two-floor shop, whereas a great variety of books are on the first floor. The shop offers a great selection of textbooks, fiction and non-fiction. Take time to examine the tables with special offers; there could be great finds there. No magazines or newspapers are sold here, but if you are in an urgent need of a photocopy, go no further. This is an old-fashioned, service-minded bookshop that will always keep its regular customers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |