History of Ahvenisto

During the 1952 Olympic Games, Finland had two official host cities: Helsinki and Hämeenlinna. The sports and recreation centre in Ahvenisto was built specifically for the Olympics.

The Olympic Games took place from 19 July to 3 August 1952. The opening ceremonies were held in Hämeenlinna on 20 July 1952, after which residents enjoyed the Olympic atmosphere for five days. Hämeenlinna hosted the modern pentathlon: riding, fencing, shooting, swimming and running.

In addition to Ahvenisto, the Olympic flag flew at the Kauriala sports field and in the Olympic Village established in Aulanko. The flags of the fifteen participating nations waved in a row at the edge of the Aulanko golf course, near Katajisto Manor.

History of the Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool

Built for the Olympics and designed by architect Ilmari Niemeläinen, the Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool served as the venue for the swimming leg of the modern pentathlon. In the 1990s, the pool was under threat of demolition. The Ahvenisto Protection Association was founded to advocate for the interests of this culturally and historically significant area, and eventually, its buildings were protected. The outdoor pool was renovated between 2013 and 2014, respecting its original design.

Since the Olympics, the Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool and the adjacent Lake Ahvenistonjärvi with its sandy beaches have established themselves as a popular summer destination for the people of Hämeenlinna. The Ministry of Education and Culture selected the Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool as the Sports Venue of the Year in 2017.