Tampere is a medium-sized industrial city, once known as the “Manchester of Finland.” In recent years, the authorities have invested heavily in transforming former factories and industrial areas in the city center into art galleries, cultural institutions, meeting places, and tourist attractions. The city is also known for its green spaces and well-kept parks. Tampere was founded in 1795, with its development taking place in the 19th century during the reign of Russian Tsar Alexander I.
Among the city’s most important attractions is the Protestant Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko), built between 1902 and 1907 in the National Romantic style, designed by Lars Sonck. Inside, visitors can admire the famous frescoes and paintings by Hugo Simberg. On the way from the cathedral to the main square, there is a charming wooden Lutheran church from 1825 (Vanha kirkko). In the very center of the city stands the neo-Gothic Alexander Church.
Tourists are also drawn to the museums in the city center: the Moomin Museum, dedicated to the iconic fairy tale (at the time of writing, photography was prohibited inside); the Spy Museum, which displays espionage devices used by secret services around the world; and the Hiekka Art Museum – the oldest museum in the city, where photography of the interiors is likewise forbidden.
In former wooden workers’ houses, the Amuri Museum of Historic Housing (Amurin Museokortteli) presents the everyday life of Finnish working-class families. The museum’s authentic apartments show how people lived from the 1880s to the 1970s. Less known is Nootti – the Museum of Finnish-Russian Relations.
Closer to the railway station, in a former industrial hall, you can visit Museokeskus Vapriikki, which offers a variety of thematic exhibitions. The drawback is the relatively high ticket prices.
North of the city center, visitors will find the Sara Hildén Art Museum (Sara Hildénin taidemuseo), housed in a brutalist concrete building. The museum is located by Lake Näsijärvi.
Nearby is another popular attraction, the Särkänniemi amusement park. The park features numerous rides, a small zoo, and a 168-meter observation tower offering a beautiful panorama of Tampere and its surroundings.
The Pyynikki Nature Reserve is a popular place for walks. Visitors should also check out the observation tower there, which also houses a café.
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