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Ruins of Old Vaasa: Echoes of a Bygone Era

Discover the haunting beauty of Old Vaasa's ruins, a window into Finland's past and a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

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Explore the hauntingly beautiful Ruins of Old Vaasa, the original site of Vaasa before a devastating fire in 1852 forced its relocation. Wander through the remains of the Church of St. Mary and other structures, imagining life in this 14th-century trading hub. The site offers a poignant glimpse into the region's history and resilience.

A brief summary to Ruins of Old Vaasa

  • 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

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the nearby green spaces after exploring the ruins.
  • Look for informational plaques that provide historical context to enhance your visit.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Korsholm Church and the Old Vaasa Museum to make the most of your time.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Vaasa Market Square (Kauppatori), head east on Kauppakatu street. Continue for about 500 meters until you reach the intersection with Hovioikeudenpuistikko street. Turn left onto Hovioikeudenpuistikko and walk for about 300 meters. The Ruins of the Old Vaasa Town Hall will be on your right, located near the intersection with Vaskiluodonkuja. The walk is approximately 1 kilometer and should take about 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Vaasa main bus station (Vaasan päärautatieasema), take bus number 1 towards Merenkurkku. Travel for about 15 minutes and get off at the 'Vaskiluoto' stop. Walk back along Vaskiluodonkuja street for approximately 200 meters. The Ruins of the Old Vaasa Town Hall will be on your left. A single ticket costs €3.30 for adults and €1.70 for children.

  • Car

    From central Vaasa, drive for about 10 minutes following signs for “Vanha Vaasa”. Use the address Kauppiaankatu 5, 65380 Vaasa in your navigator. There is street parking available nearby. Parking for the first hour at P-Citymarket Vaasa is free.

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Discover more about Ruins of Old Vaasa

The Ruins of Old Vaasa offer a captivating journey into the past, marking the spot where the city of Vaasa thrived for centuries before a catastrophic fire. Located approximately 7 km southeast of the modern city center, this historical site allows visitors to walk among the remnants of a once-bustling community. The area's history stretches back to the early 14th century when sailors from Norrland first landed on the forested island. Korsholm Castle was erected in the 1370s, establishing the area as an administrative center. Vaasa was officially founded in 1606, developing around the Church of Holy Mary, a grand stone building whose ruins still stand today. The town expanded with a symmetrical street plan, designed to be a 'green garden town' for both aesthetic appeal and fire prevention. The Great Fire of 1852 devastated Vaasa, leaving only a few structures intact. Among the surviving buildings were the courthouse (now Korsholm Church) and the Wasastjerna House, which functions as the Vanha Vaasa Museum. The decision was made to rebuild Vaasa closer to the coast, leaving behind the ruins that now serve as a powerful reminder of the city's past. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Church of St. Mary, the belfry, the town hall, and the Vaasa trivial school. Informational plaques in Finnish, Swedish, and English provide historical context. The surrounding park area is popular for strolls, picnics, and winter sledding. The site offers a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Finland's heritage.

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