Three Blacksmiths Statue: A Symbol of Finnish Labor

Located in Kolmensepänaukio, at the intersection of Aleksanterinkatu and Mannerheimintie, the Three Blacksmiths statue is a prominent landmark and a popular meeting place in Helsinki. Created by Finnish sculptor Felix Nylund, the realistic sculpture features three life-sized, nude blacksmiths working together on an anvil. The statue was commissioned by the Pro Helsingfors foundation and donated to the City of Helsinki. Nylund had previously entered a sculpture with a smith theme in a 1913 competition for a J.W. Snellman memorial. The faces of the blacksmiths are said to be modeled after the poet Arvid Mörne, a self-portrait of the young Nylund, and the stone cutter Aku Nuutinen. The statue has become a symbol of Finnish identity, embodying hard work, perseverance, and attention to detail. It also serves as a reminder of the city's history, having been damaged during a bombing in the Continuation War in 1944. A hole in the anvil, caused by bomb shrapnel, remains as a poignant reminder of the resilience of art and history. Today, the Three Blacksmiths statue is a must-see attraction for visitors and a popular spot for locals. The surrounding area is lively, with cafes and shops, making it a perfect place to relax and explore.