Turjanlinna, Kainuu Travel Guide

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Discover the legacy of Finnish author Ilmari Kianto at Turjanlinna in Suomussalmi, a cultural landmark on the scenic shores of Lake Kiantajärvi.

Explore the former home of Finnish author Ilmari Kianto, Turjanlinna, located on the shores of Lake Kiantajärvi in Suomussalmi. Though the main house was destroyed, smaller buildings remain, offering a glimpse into the life of the renowned writer and his connection to the Kainuu region.

A brief summary to Turjanlinna

Suomussalmi, 89800, FI
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Monday 11 am-5 pm
Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
Thursday 11 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 11 am-5 pm
Sunday 11 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the summer months to take a guided boat cruise on Lake Kiantajärvi to reach Turjanlinna.
Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain at Turjanlinna is rocky and uneven.
Book tickets for the Kianta-boat cruise in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

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Explore Turjanlinna on the Map

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

Getting There

Boat

The most common way to reach Turjanlinna is by taking a guided boat tour on the M/S Kianta from Suomussalmi. The boat typically operates daily from late June to mid-August. A two-hour cruise costs €20 per person, and €10 for children. Tickets can be purchased on the boat before departure.
Car

While boat tours are recommended, it may be possible to reach Turjanlinna by car via local roads. From Suomussalmi, follow signs towards the Kiantajärvi lake area. Be aware that the final section of the journey may involve unpaved roads. Parking near the site may be limited. There is free parking in Suomussalmi. Consider using a local taxi service for transportation; a taxi from Suomussalmi to Raate, which is in the same general direction, costs approximately €75-€90. Local taxi services include Korpitaxi, Taxi Taneli Heikkinen and Taxi Anssi Rautiainen.

Discover more about Turjanlinna

Turjanlinna, or the Castle of Turja, was once the vibrant home of Ilmari Kianto (1874-1970), a prolific Finnish author known for his poignant portrayals of life in the Kainuu region. Kianto, whose real name was Ilmari Calamnius, built Turjanlinna in 1909, naming it after a Lapp witch, reflecting the area's mystical character. Kianto wrote over 60 works, many of which depicted the struggles of the people in Kainuu. His most famous work is perhaps 'Punainen viiva' ('The Red Line'), published in 1909, which dealt with the first general election in Finland and was later adapted into a movie. His writings captured the essence of Finnish society during a period of modernization.Tragically, the main building of Turjanlinna was burned down during the Winter War in 1939. It was rebuilt in 1949, only to be destroyed by fire again that same year. Today, visitors can explore the remaining buildings, including a lakeside sauna, a root cellar, and a net shed, which function as an open-air museum during the summer months. A barn called "Kohtalon Korsu" and a cabin named "Iki Tupa," where Kianto lived during the summers, also stand on the site.To reach Turjanlinna, a guided boat cruise on Lake Kiantajärvi is recommended. During the cruise, a guide shares stories about Kianto's life and the history of Turjanlinna. The site is not fully accessible due to rocky terrain and stairs.