In Lönnrotin puistikko in central Helsinki, this outdoor monument honors Elias Lönnrot, the collector of Finnish folklore. Sculptor Emil Wikström’s work places Lönnrot alongside a depiction of Väinämöinen, a figure from the Kalevala. Look closely at the sculpture for a less obvious detail: a relief of an inverted face with a pentagram on its forehead. The monument’s imagery connects Finnish folklore with symbolism associated with Freemasonry, giving you several elements to examine during a short stop.
The monument and its figures
Sculptor Emil Wikström created the Helsinki monument to Elias Lönnrot, known for collecting Finnish folklore. The sculpture also depicts Väinämöinen, a figure from the Kalevala. The two figures bring the monument’s subject and its connection to Finnish folklore together in one work.
A detail to look for
Walk around to the right side of the monument to find a relief showing an inverted face with a pentagram on its forehead. The imagery has been linked to themes in the Kalevala and to Lönnrot’s connection with Freemasonry. Seeing the relief in daylight makes its details easier to examine.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Elias Lönnrot monument?
It is in Lönnrotin puistikko, Helsinki.
What detail should I look for?
Approach from the right to find a relief of an inverted face with a pentagram on its forehead.
Is the monument accessible by wheelchair?
The entrance is listed as wheelchair accessible.
