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Själö: Island of Souls and Science

Explore Själö: Where haunting history meets serene nature in the heart of the Finnish Archipelago Sea. A unique island experience awaits.

Själö, an island in the Archipelago Sea, bears a haunting history as a former leper colony and mental asylum. Today, it's a haven of natural beauty and scientific research, offering visitors a unique blend of historical intrigue and serene landscapes.

A brief summary to Själö Archipelago Nature Conservation Area

  • Själö, Nagu, FI

Local tips

  • Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it varies by season.
  • Bring sturdy walking shoes to explore the island's trails comfortably.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful natural scenery.
  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn more about the island's history and research.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Själö, take a bus from Turku to Nagu. Buses are operated by Föli and run several times a day. From the Nagu bus station, walk to the Nagu ferry terminal (Nagu satama), about a 10-minute walk. Ferries to Själö depart from the terminal. A ticket for the ferry typically costs around €10-15. Check the ferry schedule in advance. Cost: Bus fare from Turku to Nagu varies depending on the route, but expect to pay around €3-6. Ferry from Nagu to Själö is approximately €10-15.

  • Car

    If driving, head to Nagu. From Turku, take Road 180 towards Nagu, about a 30-40 minute drive. Follow signs to Själö (Seili) and drive to the Nagu ferry terminal (Nagu satama). Limited parking is available near the terminal. Take the ferry from Nagu to Själö. The ferry ride is about 20 minutes. Cost: Ferry from Nagu to Själö is approximately €5-10 per person, with possible additional charges for vehicles. Parking in Nagu is free.

Unlock the Best of Själö Archipelago Nature Conservation Area

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Discover more about Själö Archipelago Nature Conservation Area

Själö, also known as Seili, is an island located in the Archipelago Sea, a short ferry ride from Nagu. The island's name, derived from the Swedish word for "seal island," hints at its early history as a haven for seals and seal hunters. However, Själö is best known for its grim past as a place of isolation and confinement. In 1619, King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden decreed that a leper colony be established on Själö. The island's isolation made it an ideal location to quarantine those suffering from leprosy. The lepers were transported from Turku, and the hospital was dedicated to St. George. The last leper patient died in 1785, but the island's dark history continued. Själö then became a mental hospital, a place where the mentally ill, the poor, and the physically disabled were sent to be isolated from society. The mental institution operated until 1962 when the last patients were moved to the mainland. The island's hospital area, farmland, church, and graveyard are listed as nationally significant built cultural environments. Since 1964, the University of Turku has operated the Archipelago Research Institute on Själö. The institute focuses on research of the surrounding Archipelago Sea and the Baltic Sea. In addition to the research institute, there are some permanent residents on the island, mostly relatives of former hospital staff. Today, Själö is open to tourists, offering a unique blend of history and nature. Visitors can explore the island's past through guided tours and exhibits, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the archipelago. The island is part of the Pakinainen-Seili nature conservation area, which is on the Natura 2000 list. Visitors can explore marked trails, observe diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy the tranquility of the coastal waters.

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