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Sovelius House: A Glimpse into Raahe's Maritime Past

Explore Raahe's oldest residential building, the Sovelius House, and discover the opulent life of a 19th-century shipowner.

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The Sovelius House, Raahe's oldest surviving residential building dating back to the 1780s, offers a captivating look into the life of a wealthy shipowner in the 19th century. Restored with meticulous detail, the house showcases period furniture, decor, and the architectural style of the era.

A brief summary to Sovelius house

  • Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Raahe Museum website for current opening hours, as they vary seasonally.
  • Consider booking a guided tour in advance to fully appreciate the history and details of the house.
  • During Christmas, the house is decorated with 19th-century decorations, offering a special festive atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sovelius House is located at Rantakatu 36 in Old Raahe, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Pekkatori Square, walk north along Rantakatu. The Sovelius House will be on your right, across the street from the Raahe Sea Museum. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus to Raahe Bus Station, walk north-west on Kirkkokatu, then turn left onto Brahenkatu. Turn right onto Rantakatu, and continue until you reach Sovelius House on your right. Alternatively, from the bus station you can use Raahe Ride, a local DRT (demand responsive transport) service, to get closer to the Sovelius House. A ride costs €4.20 for adults and €3.20 for children.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Raahe, and a ride from the Raahe Bus and Taxi Station to the Sovelius House would be a short trip. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the ride. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Sovelius house

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Discover more about Sovelius house

Step back in time at the Sovelius House, a beautifully preserved example of 18th-century bourgeois life in Raahe. Built in the 1780s by merchant Matts Sovelius, the house stands as a testament to the town's rich maritime history and the influence of the Sovelius family. The two-story house features a classic Carolinian floor plan, with a wide hall leading to a living room and flanking rooms. The exterior showcases vertical timber weatherboarding and a high stone foundation, typical of the period. While the house has seen some renovations over the years, including window and facade updates in the 19th century and the addition of a porch in the early 20th century, it retains its original charm. Inside, the house has been carefully restored to reflect different eras. Downstairs features an Art Nouveau style, while the upstairs has been returned to its 1890s appearance, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of a shipowner and merchant. Visitors can admire exquisite furniture, period novelties, ship paintings, and elegant tableware. The house plants are even historically accurate, featuring varieties that were popular in Raahe homes over a century ago. The Sovelius House provides a tangible connection to Raahe's past, offering insights into the lives of its prominent citizens and the town's architectural evolution.

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