Amos Rex is a contemporary art museum beneath Lasipalatsi Square in central Helsinki, with its entrance in the Lasipalatsi building on Mannerheimintie. JKMM Architects designed the underground galleries and the sculptural domes that rise above them; circular windows bring daylight down into the exhibition spaces. Shows range from experimental contemporary art to older themes, with interactive installations in some exhibitions. You can also explore the domes in the public square without entering the museum. The exhibition spaces are relatively compact, so check what is showing before you buy a ticket.
The museum beneath Lasipalatsi Square
Amos Rex opened in 2018 beneath Lasipalatsi Square, with galleries extending underground from the Lasipalatsi building. The museum is named after publisher and arts patron Amos Anderson, whose art museum opened in 1965. Its present home brings exhibition spaces below ground together with the existing building above.
JKMM Architects designed the underground galleries and the forms that rise through the square. Five domes with circular windows connect the plaza to the galleries. Daylight filters through them, and the windows give people in the square a view down into the museum.
What to expect inside
Amos Rex presents a changing programme that ranges from experimental contemporary work to exhibitions with more traditional themes. Some shows use interactive displays or immersive installations; the experience depends on what is on view during your visit. The exhibition spaces are divided into rooms, so you can move between different works and themes underground.
The galleries are not extensive, and the exhibition itself is a key part of deciding whether to go inside. Check the museum’s website for the current programme before booking. If contemporary art is not your main interest, you can still see the distinctive domes from the square without entering the museum.
The square and the building above
Lasipalatsi, or the Glass Palace, is a functionalist building that opened in 1936. Amos Rex combines its above-ground spaces with new galleries below the square. The five domes give the plaza its unusual profile, while their windows bring natural light into the exhibition rooms.
The square is also a public urban space, used for activities such as sitting, picnicking and skateboarding. You can stop here to look at the architecture even if you do not have time for an exhibition.
Planning your visit
The museum’s entrance is on the Mannerheimintie side of Lasipalatsi. Kamppi and Central Railway Station are the nearest metro stations, and the route from either station reaches the museum without crossing busy streets. Tram stops are also on Mannerheimintie in front of the building.
Booking online is recommended, especially when an exhibition is popular. A coat check and lockers are available for visitors’ belongings. The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom. Children under 18 can visit free of charge; ear protectors for children can be borrowed.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Amos Rex?
Amos Rex is beneath Lasipalatsi Square in central Helsinki. The entrance is in the Lasipalatsi building on Mannerheimintie.
Do you need to book Amos Rex tickets in advance?
Booking online is recommended, particularly for popular exhibitions and busy days.
Is Amos Rex suitable for children?
Yes. Children under 18 can visit free of charge, and ear protectors for children can be borrowed.
Is Amos Rex wheelchair accessible?
The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom.
