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The Cranes Statue: A Symbol of Resilience

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A symbol of hope and resilience in Lappeenranta, commemorating the city's strength during the Winter War. A must-see landmark!

The Cranes statue in Lappeenranta is a poignant monument depicting two cranes taking flight, commemorating the city's resilience during the Winter War. Located in front of the Lappee Church, it stands as a reminder of the bombings and losses suffered, particularly the air raid that struck an air-raid shelter nearby.

A brief summary to The Cranes statue

Eve
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Know before you go

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

  • Visit the statue during the winter months to see it surrounded by snow, creating a particularly poignant atmosphere.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the Central Park and a visit to the nearby Lappee Church to learn more about the area's history.
  • Check out the statue during the Wappu festival in late April/early May to witness the capping ceremony, a unique Lappeenranta tradition.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cranes statue is located in the city center, next to the Lappee Church and Central Park, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Lappeenranta Travel Centre (Matkakeskus), walk north along Ratakatu street, then turn left onto Valtakatu street. Continue straight, passing the Kauppakeskus Galleria shopping center. The statue will be visible on your left in the Central Park, in front of the Lappee Church. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    Lappeenranta's local bus network, 'Jouko', provides access to the city center. Several bus lines stop near the Central Park and Lappee Church. Check the Jouko route planner for the most suitable route from your location. A single ticket costs approximately €3.30 and is valid for 60 minutes, allowing transfers within the zone. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver with cash or card.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Lappeenranta. A taxi from the Lappeenranta Travel Centre to the Cranes statue will cost approximately €13-19, depending on the time of day and traffic. Taxi Saimaa and Menevä Taxi are two available taxi services. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app.

  • Driving

    If driving, there are several parking garages in the city center. P-City, located under Maria Square, is the closest parking facility. Entry and exit are on Kirkkokatu Street. Other options include P-Pormestari under Vapaudenaukio Square and P-Tori at Market Square. Hourly parking rates range from €1-3. Free parking is available near the harbor and fortress along Kristiinankatu Street.

Discover more about The Cranes statue

The Cranes statue, sculpted by Emil Filén in 1949, is more than just a work of art; it's a symbol of Lappeenranta's enduring spirit in the face of adversity. The statue, depicting a pair of cranes about to take off, was the first public artwork unveiled in the city after the war. Its location in front of the Lappee Church, adjacent to the Central Park, carries a heavy historical significance. The site marks the location of an air-raid shelter that was tragically hit during the Winter War on February 15, 1940, resulting in the deaths of ten people and injuries to twenty others. The statue serves as a memorial to this event and the broader suffering endured by the city's residents during the war. The cranes, poised for flight, represent hope, recovery, and the ability to rise above even the most devastating circumstances. While the statue itself is a powerful symbol, it also functions as part of a fountain and basin, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The surrounding Central Park provides a tranquil setting for reflection and remembrance. The Cranes statue is also a focal point during Wappu, a traditional Finnish student celebration, when it is capped as part of the festivities.

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