Sipoo: Churches, Art and the Archipelago

Sipoo brings together diverse cultural histories and experiences in the archipelago. The Old Church of Sipoo offers a glimpse into architectural and art history through its medieval paintings; in Nikkilä, former Art Nouveau buildings and public art offer more to discover. In the archipelago, meanwhile, the focus is on paddling, picnics and other activities by the water. You can shape your trip around the interests that matter most to you.

Churches with a story of their own

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. Architectural history and painting techniques come together here: the church’s age and the materials used both tell the story of how the paintings were created.

The New Church of Sipoo offers a different architectural style. Theodor Decker designed the red-brick Neo-Gothic building, and the church was consecrated in 1885. It is used by Sipoo’s Finnish- and Swedish-speaking congregations. Visits are possible by prior appointment only. If you plan to visit, check the appointment arrangements again before your trip.

Museums and traces of history

The Sibbesgården local history museum is in Gesterby, one of Sipoo’s oldest villages. Several old buildings on the museum grounds illustrate what life in Sipoo was like in the past. The agricultural museum focuses on historic tools and vehicles. It is housed in an old granary right next to the New Church of Sipoo. For information about opening hours, it is best to contact the operator.

Sibbesborg Fortress is also part of the area’s history: it once stood on the island of Storängsholmen in the Sipoo estuary. The fortress was in use for a short time in the late 14th century, during the reign of King Albert of Mecklenburg of Sweden. This historical trace differs from the surviving churches and museum buildings: it leads to a former fortified site, whose documented history is brought to life above all by its location and historical context.

Art and the former hospital district in Nikkilä

In Nikkilä, architectural history meets art. The former hospital district can be explored on foot among Art Nouveau buildings; the hospital closed in 1999. The area is now a residential neighbourhood. Visitors should leave their vehicles in public car parks outside the area, enter on foot, avoid private courtyards and not enter any buildings. This keeps the boundary between public access and private homes clear as you explore.

The former Nikkilä Hospital is associated with an art collection of more than 10,000 works owned by the City of Helsinki. The hospital was also the first to employ a physical education teacher and establish art therapy groups. Several public artworks in Nikkilä are open to everyone and free to visit. A striking example is the mural by artist Rustam QBic, which extends around the entire Arava House. It was completed in September 2017 as part of the UPEA17 art event.

Activities in the archipelago

Sipoo’s archipelago offers a different focus for your stay. You can reach it by ferry, using the BOUT-Ride app, in a rented kayak or by jet ski. Check the availability of the ferry and the relevant providers before your trip. The recreational areas are free to use and have fire pits, seating areas and dry toilets; individual facilities may change, so it is a good idea to check the latest information before your visit.

Outdoor activities range from picnicking to paddling, stand-up paddleboarding and fishing. You can paddle a kayak to a sandy beach. Simsalö also adds a cultural dimension to the archipelago, with activities including concerts and arts and crafts exhibitions. The trip can bring together a range of interests, from churches, collections and historic architecture to activities on the water.

Discover more destinations: Hyvinkää, Raseborg, Tuusula, Hattom, Rajamäki, Porvoo, Vihti, Mäntsälä

For the regional travel overview: Uusimaa.