Parikkala Sculpture Park, Lake Saimaa Travel Guide

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Discover a world of quirky art in a Finnish garden, featuring hundreds of concrete sculptures by self-taught artist Veijo Rönkkönen.

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Parikkala Sculpture Park

The Parikkala Sculpture Park is an outdoor art environment featuring nearly 500 concrete sculptures created by Finnish artist Veijo Rönkkönen. Known for its quirky and sometimes eerie atmosphere, the park showcases Rönkkönen's unique artistic vision, with figures in yoga poses, mischievous children, and various animals populating the lush garden.

A brief summary to Parikkala Sculpture Park

Kuutostie 611, Koitsanlahti, 59130, FI
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths within the park are not always well-maintained.
Bring cash for the donation box, as the park relies on voluntary contributions for upkeep.
Visit the park's boutique (open June-August) for souvenirs and snacks.
Be aware that the park is open 24/7 but unlit, so bring a flashlight if visiting at night.

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Explore Parikkala Sculpture Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Parikkala Sculpture Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From the center of Parikkala, head east on Kuutostie/Route 6 for approximately 8 km. The park is located directly off the highway and is well-marked. Free parking is available next to the park.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Savonlinna to Parikkala. From the Parikkala bus station, take a taxi to the Sculpture Park, approximately 8 km away. A taxi ride will cost approximately €20-€30.

Discover more about Parikkala Sculpture Park

Parikkala Sculpture Park, located in Koitsanlahti near Parikkala, Finland, is a testament to the artistic vision of Veijo Rönkkönen. For nearly 50 years, Rönkkönen, a reclusive self-taught artist, transformed his family home and surrounding land into a unique and captivating art environment. The park features over 500 concrete sculptures, reflecting Rönkkönen's diverse interests and personal experiences.The park's most famous section showcases approximately 255 figures in various yoga poses, reflecting Rönkkönen's interest in Eastern philosophies and physical discipline. Other sculptures depict children, animals, and people from different cultures, creating a diverse and thought-provoking landscape. Many of the sculptures have distinctive features, such as glass eyes and false teeth, contributing to the park's unique and sometimes unsettling atmosphere.After Rönkkönen's death in 2010, the park was preserved by a local businessman and art enthusiast. Today, Parikkala Sculpture Park attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually, drawn by its unique blend of art, nature, and Finnish eccentricity. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park's winding paths and discover the hidden stories behind Rönkkönen's creations. The park is open 24/7 year-round, allowing visitors to experience the sculptures in different seasons and lighting conditions.