Savonlinna Market Square
Etelä-Savo
Savonlinna Market Square is centrally located in the town of Savonlinna, Finland, bordered by Olavinkatu to the north and the waters of Pihlajavesi to the south. The square measures approximately 125 meters north-south and 35 meters east-west. It began developing in the 1860s alongside the establishment of a passenger steamship harbor nearby. The market square has evolved over time, with wooden buildings around it gradually disappearing. Today, it serves as a popular summer hub for shopping, socializing, and cultural events. Visitors can find traditional Finnish products such as handmade crafts, fresh vegetables, berries, fish, flowers, and the famous local pastry, lörtsy. Seasonal markets like spring and autumn fairs, as well as a Christmas market, enrich the square's cultural life. The adjacent Haapasalmi area features the Norppa statue, created by artisans Arto Lötjönen and Eeva-Maria Miettinen in 2000, and a pedestrian bridge called Haapasalmenraitti, completed in 2003, connecting the southern end of the square across the water. The market square is also closely linked to Savonlinna's opera season, hosting daily opening ceremonies in the nearby Satamapuisto park during the festival period. Overall, Savonlinna Market Square stands as a lively cultural and commercial center, especially vibrant during summer months.
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Tip: The best time to visit Savonlinna Market Square is during the summer months, especially in July and during the opera season, when the square's opening hours are extended and numerous events take place. Visitors are encouraged to attend the traditional spring and autumn markets as well as the Christmas market for a full cultural experience. Purchasing tickets or reserving spots for special events in advance is recommended during the busy opera period. The market offers seasonal discounts and a variety of local products, so exploring early in the day is ideal for the freshest goods.
Interesting facts
- •The market is famous for selling the traditional Finnish pastry called lörtsy.
- •A Norppa statue, depicting the Saimaa ringed seal, stands near the square and was created by Arto Lötjönen and Eeva-Maria Miettinen in 2000.
- •The Haapasalmenraitti pedestrian bridge, connecting the southern end of the square, was completed in 2003.
- •Savonlinna Market Square hosts seasonal markets including spring, autumn, and Christmas fairs, with the Christmas market held at Olavinlinna castle.
- •The square serves as the opening venue for the daily ceremonies of the Savonlinna Opera Festival in the nearby Satamapuisto park.
History
Savonlinna Market Square started to develop in the 1860s when a passenger harbor suitable for steamships was established nearby.
Originally, the town's main market was located at Tottintori, on the opposite side of Haapasalmi.
In 1898, a market hall was built on the southern edge of the square for nine food vendors.
Over the decades, the square's appearance changed as wooden buildings around it disappeared.
The adjacent Norppa statue was added in 2000, and in 2003, the Haapasalmenraitti pedestrian bridge was constructed, enhancing connectivity.
The square has transitioned into a summer-focused venue and is considered the city's center during the warmer months, hosting key events and serving as a social and commercial hub.
Place Guide
Savonlinna Market Square
The central open-air market area offering a variety of local products including crafts, fresh produce, fish, flowers, and baked goods. It is the focal point for seasonal markets and cultural events in Savonlinna.
Norppa Statue2000
A sculpture representing the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, created in 2000 by artisan Arto Lötjönen and student Eeva-Maria Miettinen, located in the adjacent Haapasalmi area near the market square.
Haapasalmenraitti Pedestrian Bridge2003
A pedestrian bridge completed in 2003 that crosses Haapasalmi, connecting the southern end of the market square with surrounding areas, enhancing accessibility and scenic views.
Contact
Phone: 044 4174621
