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Devil's Church Boulder Cave: A Mystical Journey into Koli's Depths

Explore the mystical Devil's Church Boulder Cave in Koli National Park, a realm of folklore, geological wonder, and unique acoustic properties.

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The Devil's Church Boulder Cave (Pirunkirkko) is a captivating natural wonder in Koli National Park, Lieksa, Finland. This 33-meter-long, Z-shaped boulder cave is steeped in local legends and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a fascinating geological formation with a rich history. A visit promises an exciting adventure into the heart of Finnish folklore and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Devil's Church Boulder Cave

  • 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

  • Bring a flashlight to fully explore the cave's dimly lit interior.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces and potentially crawling.
  • Be prepared for steep metal stairs leading down to the cave entrance.
  • Combine your visit with a hike on the Herajärven Kierros trail, which passes by the Devil's Church.
  • Visit during the summer months for easier access, as the ice road to Koli is open during mid-winter.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Devil's Church Boulder Cave is located off Rantatie Road, approximately 12 kilometers south of Koli. From Koli village, follow signs for Rantatie. A parking area is available near the cave entrance. From the parking lot, a short path leads to steep metal stairs that descend to the cave. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Devil's Church Boulder Cave via public transport, take a bus from Joensuu or Kajaani to Ahmovaara (Kolinportti). From Ahmovaara, it is approximately 9 km to Koli National Park. You can then take a taxi from Ahmovaara to the Devil's Church Boulder Cave. Bus tickets from Joensuu to Ahmovaara cost approximately 15-25 EUR. A taxi from Ahmovaara to the Devil's Church Boulder Cave will cost approximately 20-30 EUR.

  • Walking

    If you are already within Koli National Park, you can walk to the Devil's Church Boulder Cave. From Ukko-Koli, the distance is approximately 10 km. Follow the marked trails south towards Rantatie road. Once on Rantatie, follow the road to the parking area for the Devil's Church Boulder Cave. From there, a short path leads to the cave entrance. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Devil's Church Boulder Cave

The Devil's Church Boulder Cave, known locally as Pirunkirkko, is a must-see attraction within Koli National Park. This intriguing cave, formed by massive boulders, stretches 33 meters in a Z-shape, inviting exploration and sparking the imagination. Pirunkirkko's name and mystique stem from local folklore. Legend has it that the devil resided in the cave's deepest corner, using the accessible path as merely an entrance hall. This belief led locals to avoid the cave for many years, adding to its enigmatic aura. The cave has also been a gathering place for shamans to connect with the spirit world. In 1893, Finnish artist Eero Järnefelt, renowned for his love of Koli's nature, visited the cave and was so moved that he wrote a poem on its back wall. The faint inscription reads: "One secret, one spirit, one happiness for both, this is the church, its holiness I remember forever". Today, visitors can explore the cave freely, though a flashlight is recommended to navigate the dimly lit interior. The path to the cave involves a short walk from the parking area on Rantatie road, followed by a descent down steep metal stairs. Exploring the cave may require some crawling.

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