10 Things to Do in Sibelius Monument, Lahti, Finland
The Sibelius Monument in Lahti, Finland is a tribute to the great Finnish composer and national hero, Jean Sibelius. Situated on a hill overlooking the city of Lahti and surrounded by lush forests, the monument is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see for any traveler to the area. Here are 10 things to do in and around the Sibelius Monument in Lahti, Finland.
1. Visit the Monument Itself: The monument itself is a sight to behold, with its towering stainless steel sculpture of organ pipes set against the backdrop of the surrounding forests. The monument was designed by Eila Hiltunen and was unveiled in 1967. There is also a plaque at the monument with a quote from one of Sibelius’s famous compositions, “Finlandia”.
2. Learn about the Monument’s History: The Sibelius Monument was commissioned by the Finnish government in 1965 as a way to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Sibelius’s death. It was designed by Eila Hiltunen and was unveiled on September 8, 1967, in a ceremony attended by President Urho Kekkonen and other dignitaries.
3. Take a Guided Tour: The Sibelius Monument offers guided tours of the monument and its surroundings. The tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides and provide an in-depth look at the history and significance of the monument.
4. Take a Hike: The Sibelius Monument is surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal spot for a nature hike. There are several trails in the area that offer stunning views of the monument and the surrounding countryside.
5. Visit the Sibelius Museum: The Sibelius Museum is located near the monument and offers an in-depth look at the life and works of the great composer. The museum features exhibits on Sibelius’s music, his life, and the influence of his works on Finnish culture.
6. Enjoy a Concert: The Sibelius Monument is the site of many concerts throughout the year, including the annual Sibelius Festival. The concerts feature a variety of music, from classical to contemporary, and are a great way to experience the beauty of Sibelius’s compositions.
7. Take a Boat Ride: The Sibelius Monument is located on the shore of Lake Vesijärvi, making it the perfect spot for a boat ride. There are several boat rental companies in the area that offer both motorized and non-motorized boats for rent.
8. Visit the Lahti Ski Museum: The Lahti Ski Museum is located near the Sibelius Monument and offers an in-depth look at the history of skiing in Finland. The museum features exhibits on the history of skiing in Finland, as well as a ski simulator and a ski jump tower.
9. Visit the Lahti Art Museum: The Lahti Art Museum is located near the Sibelius Monument and features a variety of contemporary art from Finnish and international artists. The museum also offers a variety of workshops and classes for visitors to participate in.
10. Go Shopping: Lahti is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, making it the perfect place to find a souvenir or two. From handmade crafts to designer clothing, there is something for everyone in Lahti.
The Sibelius Monument in Lahti, Finland is a must-see for any traveler to the area. From taking a guided tour of the monument to enjoying a concert or taking a boat ride on Lake Vesijärvi, there is something for everyone to do in and around the monument. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Lahti, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.