Kuopio Market Square
Pohjois-Savo
Kuopio Market Square, located in the Multimäki district of Kuopio, North Savo, Finland, is a central and iconic marketplace known locally as 'Mualiman napa,' meaning 'the centre of the universe.' The square spans approximately 130 by 174 meters and sits about 100 meters above sea level. Its surface is paved with dice and nubile stone, featuring flat walkways running east to west, though its slight slope presents some challenges for use. The market has been in its current location since 1818 and officially became a market square in 1856 when market activities moved here from the former Gustav Market, now Snellman Park. The square is surrounded by important streets: Tulliportinkatu to the north, Puijonkatu to the east, Kauppakatu to the south, and Haapaniemenkatu to the west. Architecturally and functionally, the square is supported by a deep sand mattress and lies above a ridge formation extending from Väinölänniemi to Puijo. Notable features include the Kuopio Market Hall on the southern edge, adorned by statues such as Veljmies and Siskotyttö, and a three-level underground parking hall with 1,350 spaces beneath the square, connected to the Apaja underground shopping center. The square is bordered by significant commercial and public buildings, including Kuopio City Hall, banks, shopping centers, and department stores. Kuopio Market Square remains a lively venue where traditional Savonian foods like kalakukko are sold, maintaining its cultural heritage amid the city's modernization.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kuopio Market Square is during the warmer months when the market is most active and vibrant. Visitors are advised to explore early in the day to experience the full range of traditional Finnish products. Purchasing tickets is generally not required as the square is a public space, but planning visits during local festivals or market days can enrich the experience. Discounts or special offers may be available during seasonal events or through local vendors. Parking is facilitated by the large underground parking hall beneath the square, but using public transportation is recommended to avoid congestion.
Interesting facts
- •Locals affectionately call Kuopio Market Square 'Mualiman napa,' which translates to 'the centre of the universe.'
- •The square is paved with dice and nubile stone and rests on a 10–15 meter deep sand mattress.
- •Beneath the square is a three-level underground parking hall with 1,350 parking spaces, connected to the Apaja underground shopping center.
- •The market has been at its current location since 1818 and officially became the market square in 1856.
- •The square is bordered by four main streets: Tulliportinkatu, Puijonkatu, Kauppakatu, and Haapaniemenkatu.
History
Kuopio Market Square's origins trace back to 1775 when surveyor Pehr Kjellman designed the town plan after King Gustav III designated Kuopio as the capital of Savonia and Karelia provinces.
Initially, the main market was located by Kuopio Bay and named Gustav Market after the king.
In 1818, the market was relocated to its current site, and by 1856 it officially became the main market square when trade moved from the previous location, now Snellman Park.
Over the centuries, the square evolved with urban development, including the construction of an underground parking hall in 1991, expanded in 2013, and modern commercial buildings surrounding the area.
Despite modernization, the square remains a central social and commercial hub in Kuopio.
Place Guide
Kuopio Market Hallearly 20th century
Located on the southern edge of the square, the Market Hall is a historic building housing traditional vendors and eateries. It features notable statues such as Veljmies with its fountain on the eastern end and Siskotyttö on the western end, adding cultural significance to the area.
Underground Parking and Apaja Shopping Center1991 (parking hall opened), expanded in 2013
Beneath the market square lies a three-level underground parking facility with 1,350 spaces, integrated with the Apaja underground shopping center that connects the square's commercial buildings, facilitating convenient access for visitors and shoppers.
Surrounding Commercial Buildings
The market square is bordered by significant commercial and public buildings including Kuopio City Hall to the north, Kuopio Osuuspankki and shopping centers Sektori and Vihtori to the east, Kuopio Lyseo High School and Aapeli shopping center to the south, and department stores Carlson and Kuopio Sokos to the west.
