What comes to mind when you think of a city shaped like a reindeer? It might sound unbelievable but you are actually standing in one right now: Etelärinne in Rovaniemi. This district is part of the city that was carefully rebuilt after the devastation of World War II. The famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto incorporated the shape of a reindeer’s head into Rovaniemi’s city plan. Etelärinne, with its residential streets and local businesses, forms one of the antlers of this unique reindeer. The destruction of Rovaniemi during the war was almost total. Over 90% of the buildings were destroyed. Imagine then, the daunting task faced by the city planners. They had a blank canvas but also a heavy responsibility. Aalto’s reindeer plan was ambitious and creative. It spoke to the spirit of Lapland and its people. Today, Etelärinne thrives as a testament to Rovaniemi’s resilience. It showcases not just unique city planning but also the enduring spirit of the people who call it home.
Harjulampi
Did you know that Harjulampi in Rovaniemi has been around for a little over fifty years? Here we are now