Liljan Patsas (Lily Statue), Turku

The Lily Statue is a significant cultural and historical landmark near the Aurasilta Bridge in Turku. Crafted by renowned Finnish sculptor Waino Aaltonen, this red granite statue was the first public art commission in the city of Turku, unveiled in 1928 after being completed between 1924 and 1926. The statue represents a naked woman standing atop a lily, which symbolizes the flower featured on Turku's coat of arms, reinforcing its connection to the city's identity. Originally titled "French Lily," the name was changed to Lily of Turku at the artist’s initiative to strengthen its local significance.

Since its unveiling, the Lily Statue has been an integral part of Turku’s cultural life, especially during the Vappu (May Day) celebrations. In a tradition that began in 1929, students place a large cap on the statue's head, similar to the Havis Amanda tradition in Helsinki. Starting in the late 1960s, dental students from the University of Turku began the practice of "cleaning" the statue using a symbolic giant toothbrush as part of the May Day festivities.

Standing proudly in Runeberginpuisto, the Lily Statue has become an enduring symbol of Turku, representing both the city's historical identity and its lively student traditions.