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Espoo Espoo is a city just west of Helsinki. It is the second-largest city in Finland and a large proportion of its population speaks Swedish, even though the majority of its residents work in Helsinki. Those interested in architecture should go and see the main building and Aalto's library at the Otaniemi University campus. The Heikki Siren's chapel and Pietiläs' student building are also of architectural interest. But the most important spectacle in Espoo is the Akseli Gallen-Kallela, a castle-come-studio building belonging to one of Finland's most distinguished painters. The building was designed in the art nouveau style by the artist himself. It is now open to the public and houses a collection of his paintings. Hietaniemi Cemetery This quiet cemetery is the final resting place for many of Finland's most important historical figures including the famous architect Alvar Aalto, the artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela and a long list of past presidents. The military hero, Field Marshall Mannerheim is also buried here; along with a monument dedicated to the 23,000 soldiers who died during WW II. The cemetery is not only a place of historical importance, but also an enjoyable place to just come and take walk around. Kaapelitehdas This one-time cable factory has been converted into a flourishing arts centre with studio space for over a hundred visual artists and performers. It includes rehearsal space for dance troupes and actors and several galleries. Some of its tennents include the Septaria Ceramics Center, the Museum of Photography, the Hurjaruuth Dance Theater and the Avanti Chamber Orchestra. There is a vast room once used for storing marine cables that is now a major venue for concerts and conferences. |