Sipoo: Discover cultural attractions and the archipelago

The archipelago of Sipoo gives a trip a maritime touch, while churches, museums and public art offer a different focus. When choosing your accommodation, you can first consider whether you want to focus your trip more on activities in the archipelago or on cultural attractions. Island experiences, historic buildings and art in Nikkilä each offer a different perspective.

Archipelago: activities and getting around

The recreational areas in the archipelago of Sipoo are free to use. Facilities include fire pits, seating areas and dry toilets. Check that the facility you want to use is available before your visit. Activities include picnicking, paddling, stand-up paddleboarding and fishing; you can also paddle to a sandy beach.

The archipelago can be reached by ferry, via the BOUT-Ride app, by rented kayak or by jet ski. Check ferry and provider availability before your trip. The various ways to get there and the range of activities give your stay a different focus from visiting the municipality’s cultural attractions. When planning your trip, you can first weigh up time on the water against visits to churches, museums or art venues.

Churches and museums

The “Old Church of Sipoo,” also known as St. Sigfrid’s Church, was built in the mid-15th century. Its wall and vault paintings also date from the 15th century and were made using earth pigments and charcoal. The date of construction and the decoration thus offer two distinct aspects of the church.

The “New Church of Sipoo” is a Neo-Gothic red-brick church designed by Theodor Decker. It was consecrated in 1885 and is used by the Finnish- and Swedish-speaking congregations of Sipoo. Visits are possible by prior appointment only; check the arrangements before your trip.

The Agricultural Museum is located right next to the New Church, in an old granary. It displays historic tools and vehicles. If you are planning a visit, contact the operator about opening hours. The collection and the building give the museum a different character from the municipality’s churches.

The Sibbesgården Local Heritage Museum is in Gesterby, one of the oldest villages in Sipoo. Its museum grounds include several old buildings that illustrate life in Sipoo in the past. Here, the museum’s subject is not just its collection, but also the grounds and their old buildings.

Nikkilä: hospital history and art

The former hospital area of Nikkilä is now a residential area. The hospital closed in 1999; you can explore the area on foot among its Art Nouveau buildings. Visitors are asked to park in public parking areas outside the site and walk in. Keep away from private yards and do not enter any buildings. These guidelines are important if you want to view the historic architecture without disturbing residents’ private areas.

A collection of more than 10,000 works of art owned by the City of Helsinki is associated with the former hospital. The hospital was also the first to employ a gymnastics teacher and establish art therapy groups. The area’s history thus encompasses both its former use as a hospital and its special connection to art.

Public art is also part of Nikkilä’s character: several artworks are open to everyone and free to visit. The mural by Rustam QBic extends around the entire Arava House. It was completed in September 2017 as part of the UPEA17 art event.

Historic sites

Sibbesborg Fortress once stood on the island of Storängsholmen in the Sipoo estuary. It was in use briefly in the late 14th century, during the reign of Swedish King Albert of Mecklenburg.

Discover more destinations: Sammatti, Hyvinkää, Tuusula, Hattom, Espoo, Nurmijärvi, Lapinjärvi.

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