Market Square is Helsinki’s most international and famous market, but the Havis Amanda sculpture and fountain defines the space after being recognized as one of the most important and beloved pieces of art in Helsinki. Like other famous mermaid statues, Havis Amanda has become an icon for the city while also being tied to the history and culture of Finland as a whole.
Symbolizing the Rebirth of Helsinki
Made in 1906 in Paris, but not erected at its present location at the Market Square in Kaartinkaupunki until 1908, Havis Amanda is a nude female statue sculpted by Ville Vallgren. The sculpture depicts a mermaid who stands on seaweed as she rises from the water, with four fish spouting water at her feet and surrounded by four sea lions. She is depicted leaning backwards as if to say goodbye to her element.
Vallgren’s intention was to symbolize the rebirth of Helsinki, although it took some time for the city to accept the piece. Initially, the piece’s nakedness and seductiveness were considered inappropriate and the monument was strongly criticized, especially by women. However, it gradually won the praise of people from across the city.
The Havis Amanda statue unusually depicts the figure with legs instead of a mermaid tail. The height of the statue is 1.94 meters (6 ft 4 in) and with the pedestal, it stands 5 meters (16 ft) tall. Upon her unveiling, the Swedish language newspapers in Helsinki and the sculptor himself started to call the sculpture ‘Havis Amanda’ after at first simply calling the piece ‘The Mermaid’.
Situated between Market Square and Esplanade Park, Havis Amanda has been able to become immensely popular and is now considered to be an icon of the city as well as one of its’ most beautiful and important piece of art.
The Centerpiece of Finland’s Most Well-known Events
Visitors to Havis Amanda are exposed to both Market Square and Esplande Park, which provide them with an incredible sense of the culture of the city. Market Square hosts some of Finland’s most well-known events and is a major shopping location for both locals and visitors. Meanwhile, Esplanade Park contains an inviting promenade for visitors and a place to relax for the locals. The park and the Espa Stage host many popular events, including the Marimekko Fashion Show in June and the Jazz-Espa concert series throughout July.
Havis Amanda itself is a notable attraction for both residents and visitors. Every year on Vappu, Havis Amanda serves as a centerpiece for the celebrations of many of the city’s residents. Students of the local universities put a cap on the statue on an elaborate ceremony. Meanwhile, tourists are attracted specifically to the statue as the monument is a central focus in various maps of the city while also being incorporated into numerous items for sale, signifying the direct and indirect economic impact it has enabled for the city.
Like other notable monuments in Helsinki, Havis Amanda showcases the impact an attraction can represent for both residents and visitors to create a lasting legacy and define the experiences for generations.
A Guiding Light for Helsinki
The Havis Amanda overcame initial objections to characterize Helsinki in a profound manner. By representing the rebirth of the city, Havis Amanda has been able to show how monuments can establish legacies that are tied to the past of the city while also serving as a guiding light for their future.
