Emil Aaltosen museo

About the museum

Pyynikki Castle was designed by architect Jarl Eklund, and this two-storey brick building with a pale render was completed in 1924. Its classicist style reflects an admiration for antiquity and Italian architecture. Emil Aaltonen (1869–1949), the pioneer of the shoe industry and Councillor of Mines, bought the castle in 1932 as his residence and as a space for his growing art collection, and the house was the home of his descendants for a long time.

In 1984 the building was renovated by Eila Kivekäs, Aaltonen’s granddaughter, for exhibitions and events. In the renovation designed by architect Markku Komonen, the building’s original exterior and the atmosphere of a private home were preserved. From 1983 to 2003 operations were run by Kannus Production Oy, and during this period numerous contemporary art exhibitions were seen in the house.

The Emil Aaltonen Museum, maintained by the Emil Aaltosen säätiö (Emil Aaltonen Foundation), opened at Pyynikki Castle on 8 June 2004. The permanent exhibition on the main floor presents Emil Aaltonen and his art collection. The museum preserves the memory of the Councillor of Mines and makes known the history of industrial development.

Highlights

• Emil Aaltonen’s life’s work, from journeyman shoemaker to industrialist
• Emil Aaltonen’s art collection
• Pyynikki Castle designed by Jarl Eklund, dating from 1924
• Dramatised guided tours and concerts
• View over the Pyynikki ridge and Lake Pyhäjärvi

Permanent exhibition

• Emil Aaltosen pysyvä näyttely – The permanent exhibition on the main floor presents the life of Emil Aaltonen and his art collection.

Founded

2004

Operated by

Emil Aaltosen säätiö

Admission & discounts

Admission is free with the Museokortti (Finnish Museum Card) and Kaikukortti. The card gives access to the exhibitions, but not to concerts or dramatised guided tours. Payment methods: card payment and cash. A guided tour in Finnish costs €50 and in other languages €85; in addition, group members pay €2 per person for admission.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The museum is not barrier-free. Of animals, only guide dogs are permitted.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

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