Observatory Hill, Helsinki, Finland

This 30 meters high rock hill was used as guard hill in the Middle Ages. If enemy ships were seen coming from the sea, fire was lighted to the hill to warn local people. After the great fire in Turku (1827), instruments and astronomical books of Turku University observatory were transferred to Helsinki.

The Helsinki astronomical observatory was built to the hill in 1834. It designed in cooperation by professor Friedrich Wilhelm Argelander and architect Carl Ludvig Engel. The observatory was among the most modern astronomical observatories of its time, and served as an example for several European observatories that were built afterwards. A separate tower was built in the observatory garden for the telescope designed for astrophotography. This building was finished in 1890.

At the top of the hill is is also situated Stigell’s monument Haaksirikkoiset (“shipwrecked”), erected in 1898. The sculpture is stretching to the west and increased the national spirit in the end of the 19th century.

User Reviews

Ella van Vloten (3 months ago)
Great contribution to the night of science! The exposition seemed really interesting too, definitely paying another visit.

Victor Kupari (9 months ago)
We visited here last month and it was a wonderful experience. The staff was very helpful and although rather small, it was a very history rich visit with a handful of digital items to interact with. It's wonderful that a lot of the original structure and equipment are preserved and in good condition.

Rosana Eats (13 months ago)
This is a stunning historical building which tells you the story from each room and function of the family leading Finland’s astrology readers h at the time. They have an impressive library room and breathtaking observatory room with very intriguing equipment. You will also find the usual ‘save the planet’ eco presentations with Greta’s quotes.

Nina Biris (2 years ago)
An outstanding collection of the studies of astronomy in Helsinki along with a stylish display. Although a great sight to visit in the city, the café there was rather disappointing, with nothing more than buns, soup and a couple of drinks. Could have more variety, especially when visitors can get hungry after exploring the area.

Elena Soitu (2 years ago)
Small but interesting. Old different astronomical stuff.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Andrew Gustar

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