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Matti Nykänen Memorial: A Tribute to a Ski Jumping Legend

A tribute to Matti Nykänen, Finland's ski jumping hero, celebrating his Olympic achievements and cultural impact in Jyväskylä.

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The Matti Nykänen Memorial in Jyväskylä stands as a tribute to the legendary Finnish ski jumper, Matti Nykänen, a four-time Olympic champion and national icon. The memorial, featuring a sculpture called 'Höyhen' (Feather), celebrates his remarkable achievements and lasting legacy in winter sports.

A brief summary to Matti Nykänen memorial

  • Jyväskylä, 40700, FI
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
  • Consider bringing a small bouquet of flowers as a tribute to the legendary athlete.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the lakeside for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Jyväskylä city center, near the Jyväskylä City Hall, head northeast on Kauppakatu street. Continue to the intersection with Vapaudenkatu, then turn left onto Vapaudenkatu. Walk until you see the pedestrian bridge on your right that crosses over Jyväsjärvi lake. Cross the bridge and continue straight ahead on the path. The Matti Nykänen memorial will be located by the lakeside in the Harju area. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No cost is associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    Begin at the Jyväskylä bus station and take bus line 8 towards 'Kauppakatu'. Ride for about 10 minutes and get off at the 'Harju' stop. Head towards the lake (Jyväsjärvi) and follow the pedestrian paths leading to the memorial, a 5-10 minute walk along the lakeside. A single ticket costs €4.00 if purchased with cash from the driver or €2.70 with a debit/credit card or mobile app.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Jyväskylä. A taxi ride from the city center to the Matti Nykänen memorial is a short trip. The taxi start fee is approximately €7.00, with an additional €2.20 per mile. The total cost will vary based on traffic and the specific route, but expect to pay around €15-€25.

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Discover more about Matti Nykänen memorial

Nestled in Jyväskylä, the Matti Nykänen Memorial pays homage to one of Finland's most celebrated ski jumpers. Matti Nykänen, an Olympic champion, left an indelible mark on the sport, and this memorial serves as a testament to his achievements. Created by sculptor Kaarina Kaikkonen, the memorial was inaugurated on September 14, 2022. The sculpture, named 'Höyhen' (Feather), is crafted from stainless steel and granite. The polished black granite slab features a sketchy engraving of a young Matti Nykänen, while the steel sculpture resembles a feather. The feather's shape is composed of ski-like parts, with the center rods adapting to the curve of a ski jumper, forming a 'track'. Skis pointing towards the sky at the top symbolize Nykänen's first skis and his final jump, representing a departure to another dimension. Visitors are often moved by Nykänen's life story, filled with both triumph and adversity. The memorial celebrates his athletic prowess and sparks conversations about the challenges he faced. Informative plaques detail his accomplishments and personal struggles, providing a comprehensive view of the man behind the legend. The memorial is easily accessible and often included in guided tours of Jyväskylä. It serves as a poignant landmark that enriches the understanding of this remarkable athlete and his impact on Finnish identity and national pride.

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