Ateneum Art Museum: Finland's Treasure House of Art
Explore Finnish art history at Ateneum, Helsinki. Discover masterpieces from the 18th century to modernism in a stunning neo-Renaissance building.
The Ateneum Art Museum, located in the heart of Helsinki, is a cornerstone of Finnish art and culture. As part of the Finnish National Gallery, the Ateneum boasts the most extensive collection of Finnish art, showcasing works from the 18th century to the 1950s, as well as international pieces. The museum's collection includes over 20,000 works, featuring paintings, sculptures, and drawings by renowned Finnish artists such as Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Helene Schjerfbeck, and Albert Edelfelt. Visitors can explore the development of Finnish art through the ages, from rococo portraiture to the experimental movements of the 20th century. The Ateneum also houses international art, including Vincent van Gogh's 'Street in Auvers-sur-Oise,' making it one of the first museums in the world to acquire a Van Gogh painting. The Ateneum building, designed by Theodor Höijer and completed in 1887, is an architectural landmark in itself. Its facade is adorned with statues and reliefs that symbolize the arts, including busts of Bramante, Raphael, and Phidias. Visitors can enjoy temporary exhibitions, guided tours, workshops, and performances, in addition to the permanent collection. The museum also has a shop with art books and souvenirs and a café.
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday evenings when the museum is open late, for a quieter experience.
- Check the museum's website for current exhibitions, events, and updated opening hours.
- Consider taking a guided tour or using an audio guide for deeper insights into the art and history.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Central Railway Station, Esplanadi Park, and Helsinki Cathedral.
- Visit the museum shop for art books, prints, and unique souvenirs.
A brief summary to Art Museum Ateneum
- Kaivokatu 2, Helsinki, 00100, FI
- +358294500401
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
The Ateneum Art Museum is located in the city center, a short walk from many central Helsinki attractions. From the Central Railway Station, walk south across the Rautatientori square. The museum is on the opposite side of the square, approximately a 2-minute walk. From Senate Square, walk along Aleksanterinkatu street for about 10 minutes until you reach Kaivokatu street, where the Ateneum is located.
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Public Transport
The Ateneum is easily accessible by public transport. Take the tram to the Kauppatori or Rautatieasema stops, which are a short walk from the museum. Alternatively, take the metro to the Helsinki Central Station (Rautatientori) and walk to the museum. Many bus lines also serve the central Helsinki area, with stops close to the Ateneum. A single tram or bus ticket within Helsinki costs around €3.10.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Helsinki. A short taxi ride from the Central Railway Station or Senate Square to the Ateneum will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic and the time of day.
