Market Square Park and Church Park

Thanks to their central location, Toripuisto and Kirkkopuisto have historically served as a meeting place for city residents, particularly young people.

In 1798, the city’s oldest building, Hämeenlinna Church, was completed in the centre of Hämeenlinna. From the completion of the church onwards, city residents traditionally gathered to sit in Kirkkopuisto on summer evenings and holidays.

In the early 20th century, there was a desire to develop the market area in front of the church. Hämeenlinna-based architect Armas Lindgren undertook this work. Lindgren designed Toripuisto as a formal terraced park, in line with the architectural style of the era – an ornamental park area separated by stone fences and pillars, featuring plantings and gravel paths structuring the lawn areas. On the paved market side, the central axis from the church across the market square was emphasised, as were the radial paths extending from the centre to the corners of the square. A fountain was placed in the middle of the park. Toripuisto was completed in 1911. Lindgren later added pavilion buildings to the plans.

The park, which has undergone changes over the years, was thoroughly renovated in 2007, respecting its historical origins and Lindgren’s original design.

Even today, those attending church events and visiting the market stop to spend time in the parks by the murmuring fountain. The pavilion buildings house summer cafés with outdoor terraces.