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Old Rauma: A UNESCO-listed Nordic Wooden Town

Discover Old Rauma: Finland's best-preserved wooden town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and rich history.

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Old Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkably preserved wooden town in Finland, dating back to the Middle Ages. Wander its cobblestone streets and admire the colorful, historic buildings that house boutiques, cafes, and homes, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past.

A brief summary to Old Rauma

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.
  • Join a guided walking tour to learn about the history and culture of Old Rauma.
  • Visit during Lace Week in July to experience the town's bobbin lace-making tradition.
  • Check the opening hours of shops and boutiques, especially on Saturdays.
  • Respect the privacy of residents and avoid entering private yards unless invited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Old Rauma is best explored on foot. From the Rauma bus station, walk towards the Church of the Holy Cross. Old Rauma begins on the other side of the canal, a short 3-minute walk. Follow the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys to discover the town's attractions.

  • Public Transport

    The Rauma bus station is located next to Old Rauma. Buses from Helsinki and Turku arrive regularly. From the bus station, it's a short walk to the heart of Old Rauma. Bus tickets from Turku cost approximately €6-€14. From Helsinki, bus tickets range from €14-€19.

  • Parking

    Driving within Old Rauma is not recommended due to limited parking. Several parking areas are available on the outskirts of Old Rauma. Parking is free in Rauma, but some spaces have time limits, so check the signs carefully. Four parking places are located near Old Rauma by the Church of Holy Cross (Luostarinkatu 1) and along streets Eteläkatu, Savilankatu and Kaunisjärvenkatu.

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Discover more about Old Rauma

Old Rauma, or Vanha Rauma in Finnish, is a captivating step back in time, located on the west coast of Finland. As the largest unified wooden town in the Nordic countries, it earned its UNESCO World Heritage status in 1991. Founded in 1442, Rauma is one of Finland's oldest towns, and Old Rauma showcases a unique architectural heritage. Stroll along the narrow, winding cobblestone streets, where over 600 pastel-painted wooden buildings stand. These structures, primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries, display the craftsmanship of the era. While fires in the 17th century destroyed many older buildings, the town's medieval layout remains. Old Rauma is not a museum; it's a living, breathing community where approximately 800 residents reside. You'll discover boutiques, artisan workshops, cafes, and restaurants nestled within the historic buildings. Key landmarks include the Church of the Holy Cross, a 15th-century Franciscan monastery church, and the Old Town Hall, constructed in 1776. Museums like the Kirsti House and Marela House offer insights into the lives of seamen and shipowners. Visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere by taking guided walking tours, exploring the local shops, and admiring the colorful architecture. Don't miss Kitukränn, Finland's narrowest alley. The town is also known for its bobbin lace-making tradition, with the annual Lace Week festival being a highlight. Whether you visit in the summer, when the town is alive with festivals, or in the winter, when it transforms into a tranquil wonderland, Old Rauma offers a unique and memorable experience.

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