Granary, Helsinki Archipelago Travel Guide

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Discover the charm of the Granary in Seurasaari, Helsinki, and experience Finland's rich cultural and architectural heritage in a serene island setting.

The Granary from Paltamo, located on Seurasaari Island in Helsinki, is a captivating structure that offers a glimpse into Finland's architectural and farming traditions. Dating back to 1698, this well-preserved granary showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of historical Finnish building methods.

A brief summary to Granary

Seurasaari, Helsinki, 00250, FI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Granary.

Visit during the summer months for the best weather and to fully enjoy the outdoor exhibits of the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring Seurasaari involves a lot of walking on potentially uneven pathways.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings, as there are many lovely spots for a relaxing meal on Seurasaari Island.
Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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Explore Granary on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Granary, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach the Granary, begin by taking tram line 4 towards 'Kumpula' from central Helsinki. Get off at the 'Helsingin yliopisto' stop and transfer to bus number 24 towards 'Seurasaari'. This bus will take you directly to Seurasaari. From the Seurasaari bus stop, it is a short walk to the entrance of the island. Follow the main path and signs for the Open-Air Museum; the Granary will be a short walk away. A single public transport ticket costs approximately €3.20.
Walking

If you are already on Seurasaari Island, reaching the Granary is straightforward. From the main entrance, proceed along the main path leading into the island. Follow the signs specifically directing you to the Open-Air Museum and the Granary (Mylly), which is located approximately 10-15 minutes from the entrance. The path is well-marked, offering scenic views of the surrounding nature.
Car

When driving from central Helsinki, head west towards Seurasaari. Follow the E18 highway and the signs for Lahti until you see the exit for Seurasaari. After exiting, follow the road signs leading to Seurasaari. A parking area is available near the island's entrance; parking fees are approximately €2 per hour. From the parking area, walk across the bridge to Seurasaari Island and follow the main path to the Granary.

Discover more about Granary

The Granary from Paltamo, nestled within the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum on the verdant Seurasaari Island, provides an intriguing peek into Finland's architectural and farming traditions. Established in 1909 by Professor Axel Olai Heikel, the Seurasaari Open Air Museum aims to conserve and present Finland's architectural heritage. Among the 87 structures brought from different Finnish regions to Seurasaari, the 17th-century grain barn from Melalahti village in Paltamo catches attention as one of the oldest and most captivating exhibits. This granary, originally from the Junttila farm, was built in 1698, as indicated proudly by an inscription on its door. It served its purpose until 1723, storing grain while using clever methods to protect its contents.Reflecting the Northern Ostrobothnia style influenced by Russian architecture and culture, the granary illustrates historical interactions between Finland and its eastern neighbor. The design of the granary features a raised platform foundation, a practical solution to prevent rodent infestations and keep the grain dry. This elevation also helps in better air circulation, crucial for maintaining the dryness of the stock inside. Additionally, the granary's roof showcases a unique technique for securing the pine laths supporting the waterproof birch bark layers, highlighting the resourcefulness of historical Finnish building methods.Situated amidst the lush landscapes of Seurasaari, close to Helsinki's urban center, this granary not only represents a part of Paltamo's farming history but also embodies Finland's broader cultural and architectural legacy. Preserved and displayed in the Seurasaari Open Air Museum, it offers visitors a direct connection to the past, fostering a deeper understanding of the country's historical lifestyle and the architectural innovations that sustained it.