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The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy: A Symbol of Charity

Discover the poignant Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy, a historical symbol of charity and community support in the heart of Ostrobothnia, Finland.

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The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy, located outside the Kronoby Church, is a wooden alms box in the form of a traditionally dressed, often disabled, man. These statues, common in 17th-19th century Finland and Sweden, were used to collect money for the poor and represent a poignant piece of local cultural heritage.

A brief summary to The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy

  • Kyrkvägen 28, Kronoby, 68500, FI
  • 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

  • Combine your visit with a tour of the beautiful Kronoby Church and its surrounding historical area.
  • Check out other nearby attractions in Kronoby, such as local museums or natural sites, to enrich your visit.
  • Visit during the summer months to enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the surrounding countryside.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pauper Statue is located next to the Kronoby Church on Kyrkvägen 28, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already in Kronoby. From the center of Kronoby, walk or bike along Kyrkvägen. The church and statue are prominent landmarks. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from nearby towns like Kokkola or Jakobstad, check the INGSVA bus schedules for routes that stop near Kronoby Church. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the church. Bus tickets typically cost between €5-€6 for a single trip from Jakobstad. From Vaasa to Kronoby by bus will cost approximately €19-€23.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Kyrkvägen 28, 68500 Kronoby. Parking is available near the church. Check for any local parking regulations or fees upon arrival. Parking at Idrottsvägen Parking is available and wheelchair accessible. While one hour of free parking is available at the Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport , it is best to confirm parking options and costs near the church in Kronoby.

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Discover more about The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy

The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy stands as a tangible reminder of Finland's history of social welfare and community support. These statues, known as *vaivaisukko* in Finnish and *fattiggubbe* in Swedish, are alms boxes crafted from wood, depicting impoverished individuals, often war veterans or those with disabilities. Positioned outside Lutheran churches, they served as a collection point for donations to aid the needy within the parish. The practice of erecting pauper statues began in 1649 when Queen Christina of Sweden decreed that 'poor logs' should be placed in churches and public spaces. Local carpenters then transformed these logs into representations of beggars. The Pauper Statue of Kruunupyy, like others of its kind, embodies the spirit of compassion and communal responsibility that was integral to Finnish society. Today, around 144 pauper statues remain in Finland, predominantly in the Ostrobothnia region, with only a single known 'poor woman' statue. Visiting the Pauper Statue offers a glimpse into the past, inviting reflection on the challenges faced by the less fortunate and the ways in which communities sought to address them. It's a cultural landmark that connects visitors to the history and traditions of Kronoby and the broader Ostrobothnia region.

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