Kotka Maritime Centre Vellamo
Kymenlaakso
Kotka Maritime Centre Vellamo, located in Kotka, Finland, is a striking cultural complex that hosts the Maritime Museum of Finland alongside the Kymenlaakso Museum and the Coast Guard Museum. Designed by architects Ilmari Lahdelma and Rainer Mahlamäki, the building opened in 2008 and is notable for its distinctive facade of alternating colored metal panels and silk-screened glass. The Maritime Museum’s extensive collection includes over 16,000 artifacts, 37,000 photographs, and thousands of maps and documents, reflecting Finland's rich maritime heritage. Visitors can also explore historic vessels such as the icebreaker Tarmo and the lightship Kemi, docked alongside the museum. The centre offers diverse exhibitions, including the permanent "Pohjantähti, Etelän risti" display and the acclaimed "Kohtalona Ruotsinsalmi" exhibition, which drew record visitors. Facilities include a library, auditorium, restaurant, and museum shop, making Vellamo a vibrant destination for maritime culture and history enthusiasts. The centre also serves as a venue for temporary art exhibitions and cultural events, enhancing its role as a regional cultural landmark.
Planen Sie Ihre Reise nach Finnland mit KI
Erstellen Sie in wenigen Minuten einen detaillierten Reiseplan. KI schlägt die besten Orte, Restaurants und eine optimierte Route vor.
Tipp: The best time to visit Kotka Maritime Centre Vellamo is during the summer months when the historic icebreaker Tarmo is open to the public. It is advisable to check the official website for current exhibitions and opening hours. Visitors can benefit from discounted tickets by purchasing in advance or combining entry with other regional museums. The centre's location in Kotka's harbour area makes it accessible by public transport and offers nearby parking facilities. Guided tours are available and recommended for a comprehensive experience of the maritime heritage.
Interessante Fakten
- •The Maritime Museum’s collection includes over 16,000 artifacts and 37,000 photographs, maintained by the Finnish Heritage Agency.
- •The icebreaker Tarmo and the lightship Kemi are historic vessels docked at the museum and open for visitors during summer.
- •The Vellamo building won the Year 2008 Steel Structure competition and was awarded the 2009 Lighting Target award by the Finnish Lighting Society.
- •The museum’s "Kohtalona Ruotsinsalmi" exhibition set a visitor record in 2020 with 13,000 visitors in five weeks.
Geschichte
The Maritime Museum of Finland’s collection began in the early 1900s with donations from consul Gösta Sundman and others.
The museum opened to the public in 1981 and was relocated to the Maritime Centre Vellamo in 2008 following a decision by the Ministry of Education and Culture.
The Vellamo building, designed by Lahdelma and Mahlamäki, was constructed between 2006 and 2007, with its official opening in July 2008.
The centre also houses the Kymenlaakso Museum and the Coast Guard Museum, consolidating regional maritime heritage.
Despite construction challenges, including roof leaks, Vellamo has become a celebrated architectural and cultural landmark in Kotka.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Main Exhibition Hall - "Pohjantähti, Etelän risti"2008
This permanent exhibition explores Finland’s maritime history through artifacts, documents, and photographs, highlighting the country’s relationship with the sea.
Icebreaker Tarmo1907
A historic Finnish icebreaker docked at the museum’s pier, open to visitors during summer months, showcasing maritime engineering and icebreaking history.
Lightship Kemi1958
A historic lightship moored at the museum, providing insight into maritime navigation and lighthouse history in Finland.
Tietokeskus Vellamo Library and Archive2008
Opened in 2008-2009, this research facility offers extensive maritime and regional archives, supporting scholarly work and public interest.
Kontakt
Telefon: 040 3500497