Lepaa Manor
Kanta-Häme
Lepaa Manor, located in the Kanta-Häme region of Finland, is a historic estate with origins possibly dating back to the 13th century. The oldest parts of the main building date from the late 1600s to early 1700s and were remodeled in the Empire style in the early 19th century. In 1820, the manor was acquired by a St. Petersburg merchant, Heimburger, whose widow later married the estate manager Karl Fredrik Packalén. Packalén bequeathed the manor to the Finnish state upon his wife's death, on the condition that an agricultural or horticultural school be established on the estate. This led to the founding of the Lepaa Horticultural Institute in 1910, with the first students starting in 1912. Today, the manor serves as a campus for Häme University of Applied Sciences, offering programs in horticulture, bioeconomy, and the built environment, alongside vocational training in green industries. The manor grounds also host a variety of outdoor activities year-round, including hiking, fishing, golfing, and winter sports. Lepaa Manor remains a culturally significant site, combining historical architecture, educational functions, and recreational opportunities in a scenic natural setting. The estate is also known for its annual Lepaa Exhibition, one of the largest and oldest horticultural professional events in Northern Europe.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan visits during the summer months when outdoor activities and events are abundant. Booking accommodations and sauna sessions in advance is recommended, especially for families or groups. The on-site waffle café operates seasonally, reopening in spring. The manor offers tailored catering and event facilities for meetings and celebrations. Discounts may be available for groups or educational visits. Arriving by car or via local transport to nearby stops is convenient.
Interesting facts
- •Lepaa Manor's oldest sections date back to the late 1600s and early 1700s.
- •The manor was remodeled in the Empire style during the early 19th century.
- •Karl Fredrik Packalén bequeathed the manor to the Finnish state with the condition to establish a horticultural school.
- •The Lepaa Horticultural Institute started teaching in 1912 and continues today as part of Häme University of Applied Sciences.
- •Lepaa hosts one of Northern Europe's largest and oldest horticultural professional exhibitions annually.
- •The manor grounds offer year-round outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, golfing, and winter sports.
History
Lepaa Manor was possibly founded in the 1200s, with the oldest surviving building parts from the late 1600s to early 1700s.
The manor was remodeled in the Empire style in the early 1800s.
In 1820, it was purchased by merchant Heimburger from St.
Petersburg.
After his death, the estate passed to his widow Maria, who married Karl Fredrik Packalén.
Upon Maria's death, Packalén donated the manor to the Finnish state in 1902, stipulating that a horticultural or agricultural school be established.
The Lepaa Horticultural Institute was founded in 1910, commencing education in 1912.
Since then, the estate has developed into an educational and cultural hub while preserving its historic character.
Place Guide
Main Manor Building1600s-1700s (original), early 1800s (remodel)
The historic main building features architecture from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, remodeled in the Empire style in the early 1800s. It houses administrative offices and event spaces reflecting the manor's rich heritage.
Lepaa Horticultural Institute CampusFounded 1910, teaching started 1912
An educational campus operating on the manor grounds, offering programs in horticulture, bioeconomy, and environmental design. The institute continues the legacy of agricultural education established in 1912.
Manor Grounds and Outdoor Activity Areas
The expansive grounds provide facilities for hiking, fishing, swimming, golfing, and winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There is also a lakeside beach and sauna available by reservation.
Contact
Phone: 044 2416424