Porvoo Things to Do

The Porvoo parish and the church originated in the 13th century. The church was first built of wood, later of stone. It was founded high on the hill to dominate the town.

Although the church has a long history, there is no special thing inside to see. The attractive thing is during you walking from the downtown to the church. Those narrow stone streets and old Finnish buildings are worth to see.

The best known of Porvoo's own artists is probably Albert Edelfelt, born in Kiiala manor in 1854. Edelfelt was especially enchanted by Old Porvoo with its narrow streets and the red river-bank outbuildings. Every summer for over 20 years, he travelled from Paris to paint in the Porvoo scenery.

Porvoo is a tiny, quite and peaceful town. The old town makes it to be one of the most attractive cities in Finland you should visit.
The riverside storehouses surrounded a medieval harbour into which salt and other products were imported in 15th century are really a beautiful view.

This is the city museum which is basically the city history museum, located in which I assume the oldest building on this city, few floors of historical exhibition, but I cannot say it was something extra ordinary.

This old city hall stands in the new part of the old town. Dating back to the 18th century.
On this square are several coffee places with terraces where you can give your poor feet a rest. The cobble stones are pretty but not good for walking.

This is old church at the top of the hill, you can relax there and even have a small picnic in the yard. The last time when visited I could even listen to some music as the locals were rehearsing in the place.

This old church build in the end of the 14th century still standing at the top of the hill in the old city. Climbing this hill might be a bit difficult if you are cycling and even walking on the old stone road.

The oldest parts of the Porvoo Cathedral date from the end of the 13th century. The church was dedicated to St. Mary. The current Gothic-style appearance is mainly from the reconstruction in 1414-1418. The church has been destroyed several times.

The picture is of the Belfry standing aside. Next to it is a smaller church which is used as a Lutheran parish.

While walking through the old streets, it suddenly became very busy with people from all directions as I walked along with them I found out they were all heading towards the cathedral, there was going to be a wedding.
I stayed and watched the people walk in for a while. The cathedral looks serene in it is coat of white paint. I took a photo of these two ladies in a local dress. They reminded me of gypies, but I have no idea what kind of dress it is.