Alvettulan silta Travel Guide

Alvettulan silta, also known as Alvettulan vanha silta (Old Alvettula Bridge), is a captivating historical landmark located in the village of Alvettula, in Hämeenlinna. This protected steel-concrete arch bridge, completed in 1916, spans the Alvettulanjoki river and connects Hauhonselkä and Ilmoilanselkä.The bridge is a notable example of early 20th-century engineering, distinguished by its construction from concrete hollow blocks using the 'Tapani method'. Designed by engineer Wäinö Wuolio, the bridge consists of two arches with a total length of 71.5 meters and a width of 5 meters. Its construction was funded by road shareholders with significant contributions.Alvettulan silta has historical importance due to its role during the Finnish civil war in 1918. The bridge was a strategic point during the Battle of Alvettula, where the Reds and Whites fought for control of the crossing. A memorial plaque on the bridge commemorates these events. In 1974, a new bridge was built alongside the old one, and the Alvettulan silta was saved from demolition through the efforts of the local village committee and was repaired as a museum bridge in 1978.Today, Alvettulan silta is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Visitors can launch boats near the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the Alvettulanjoki river. The bridge is also a great place to compare old and new construction methods.