Ruokolahti Church Hill

Ruokolahti Church Hill – A Historic Gem on the Shore of Lake Saimaa

Experience a unique cultural environment and masterpieces of Finnish architectural art!

Ruokolahti Church Hill is located in a magnificent and scenic spot right on the shore of Lake Saimaa. The historical buildings and monuments of the area, together with the nature surrounding the hill, form a truly memorable whole. This is an ideal destination for those interested in history as well as those looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to spend a summer day.

Historical sites of the Church Hill:

• Ruokolahti Church: The magnificent wooden cruciform church, completed in 1854, stands at the top of the Church Hill. The current church is the fourth in the parish's history, and it is surrounded by a well-maintained yard with war graves.

• Shingle-roofed Bell Tower: The most famous building on the Church Hill, which has rightfully been called a gem of Finnish church architecture. Built by carpenter Tuomas Suikkanen in 1752, the bell tower is one of Ruokolahti's oldest buildings.

• Local History Museum: A museum established in an atmospheric old grain granary, directly opposite the bell tower.

• Ruokolahti House and Summer Cafe Kaiku: On the edge of the Church Hill is the Ruokolahti House, built according to the model of a traditional 19th-century farmhouse. Here, the cozy Summer Cafe Kaiku serves during the summers.

Visit information:

• Opening hours: The Church Hill sites, museum, and cafe are open to the public during summer. The courtyard and landscapes can naturally be explored from the outside year-round.

• Location: Ukonsalmentie 5, 56100 Ruokolahti.