Puolalanpuisto (Puolala Park), Turku

Puolala Park (Puolalanpuisto) in Turku is a scenic urban retreat nestled just two blocks from the city’s bustling Market Square. This historic park, established in the late 19th century, offers year-round recreational opportunities and is deeply intertwined with Turku’s cultural landscape. One of the park's key features is its proximity to the Turku Art Museum, which sits atop Puolalanmäki Hill, making the granite museum building a striking focal point for visitors.

Puolala Park is bordered to the north and east by Art Nouveau buildings from the early 20th century, along with a few charming wooden houses. Although the panoramic views of the city once available from the park have been obstructed by modern construction, Puolalanmäki remains one of Finland's most significant designed environments, embodying the ideals of national romanticism in its landscaping. The park’s original vegetation, planted in the early 1900s, highlights native Finnish species, reflecting the spirit of the era.

The park has been a favorite gathering spot for Turku residents for over a century. It features two playgrounds and serves as a popular location for sunbathing in summer, while in winter, locals continue the long-standing tradition of sledding down the park’s rock hills. Historically, from the 1970s to the 1990s, Puolala Park also hosted free summer concerts, drawing large crowds and making use of the hill’s natural amphitheater-like setting.

Besides its recreational appeal, Puolala Park is also central to local traditions. The park plays a significant role in the First of May celebrations, especially for secondary school graduates, who have donned their white caps at the Turku Art Museum's forecourt since 1949. Whether for relaxation, recreation, or festivities, Puolala Park remains a cherished part of life in Turku.