About Aurora Hospital
Aurora Hospital is an active medical facility in Helsinki, Finland, situated mainly in the Töölö and Laakso districts. It developed from a notable pediatric hospital into a leading center for adult psychiatric care within the Helsinki University Hospital (HUS) network. Its medical history, architectural heritage and integration of art in healing have made it significant to healthcare professionals, historians, art enthusiasts and cultural visitors.
Public access is limited because the hospital remains in use, and visitor privacy and security protocols apply. Its history and cultural legacy can be explored through exhibitions at the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) and the Design Museum, which feature reproductions of Tove Jansson’s murals. The hospital’s redevelopment is part of the Laakso Joint Hospital project.
History
Aurora Hospital was established in response to the growing need for modern public healthcare in early 20th-century Helsinki. Named for philanthropist Aurora Karamzin, it became known for its progressive approach to pediatric care and for integrating art into hospital environments.
The original pavilions, built in 1913–1914, reflect early 20th-century Finnish institutional architecture, with natural light, robust brickwork and parkland settings.
Throughout the 20th century, Aurora Hospital was a central institution for pediatric medicine. It contributed to reduced child mortality and advances in care. Its integration into the HUS network marked a shift towards specialized, centralized care, and its influence continues in Finnish healthcare.
Tove Jansson’s mural
In the 1950s, Tove Jansson was commissioned to create a mural for the children’s ward. Her work, “Leikki” (“Play”), features Moomin characters and is celebrated as an example of art’s therapeutic role in healthcare. The original mural is no longer at the hospital; reproductions can be seen at the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) and the Design Museum.
What to see
The hospital’s exterior can be admired from the surrounding parkland, though access to its interiors is restricted. Some city architectural tours may include the site (Project Gora).
The Helsinki Art Museum and the Design Museum display reproductions of Jansson’s mural. HAM periodically offers guided tours focusing on her art and Aurora Hospital’s history. Museum exhibitions may require tickets; see the practical information below.
Healthcare, research and education
Aurora Hospital provides multidisciplinary adult psychiatric care, including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and neuromodulation techniques such as ECT and TMS. It collaborates with community services and provides digital mental health resources via Mielenterveystalo.fi.
As part of the University of Helsinki and HUS, Aurora is active in psychiatric research, education and advocacy. Its work aims to ensure care is based on current evidence and best practices (HUS Research and Education).
Redevelopment and future
The Laakso Joint Hospital project will modernize psychiatric care while preserving historical elements. Its planned features include integrating heritage buildings with new, sustainable structures; flexible, patient-centered interior spaces; and energy-efficient systems aligned with Helsinki’s carbon neutrality goals (Archinfo.fi).
Aurora Hospital’s psychiatric services are scheduled to relocate to the new Laakso Joint Hospital complex, with phased openings beginning in 2026 (HUS Joint Hospital).
Practical visiting information
Visiting hours and access
Standard visiting hours are:
- Monday–Friday 14:00–19:00
- Saturday & Sunday 12:00–19:00
Hours may vary by ward or during public health alerts. Confirm current arrangements with the hospital or HUS Psychiatry. Visits are primarily for patient support. Hospital tours are generally limited to academic or professional groups by appointment.
- Address Nordenskiöldinkatu 20, building 15, 00250 Helsinki.
- Public transport Multiple tram and bus lines serve the area. Use the HSL app for route planning.
- Accessibility The hospital and its grounds are wheelchair accessible; designated parking and assistance are available on request. For more information, see the City of Helsinki Service Map.
Museums, tickets and photography
HAM and the Design Museum have ticketing policies and opening hours of their own. Museum admission applies to exhibitions; check the museums’ websites for current rates and details. Both museums are wheelchair accessible. Contact the museums or hospital lobby in advance about special accessibility needs.
Photography for personal use is permitted in museum exhibitions, but confirm on-site. Photography is prohibited in patient areas of the hospital.
Tips
- Bring photo ID for registration.
- On-site parking is limited.
- English is widely spoken; Finnish and Swedish are official languages.
- Check with staff before bringing gifts or making deliveries.
- Respect patient privacy and maintain a calm environment.
- Follow posted hygiene protocols and temporary health safety rules.
- For current visiting policies, exhibitions and tours, consult the Helsinki University Hospital website and the City of Helsinki Service Map.
- The Audiala app is also suggested for enhancing a visit.
Helsinki is described as one of the world’s safest cities. Aurora Hospital maintains strict safety, privacy and security standards, including on-site personnel.
Nearby places
- Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) See reproductions of Jansson’s mural and related exhibitions (HAM Helsinki).
- Design Museum Explore Finnish design heritage and Jansson’s contributions.
- Helsinki Olympic Stadium A historic sports venue nearby.
- Töölönlahti Bay A scenic recreation area for walking.
FAQs
Can I see the original Tove Jansson mural at Aurora Hospital?
No. The original is not on-site; reproductions are at HAM and the Design Museum.
Are there entrance fees to exhibitions?
Museum admission applies. Check the museums’ websites for current rates.
Is the hospital accessible for disabled visitors?
The hospital and museums are wheelchair accessible. The hospital also has designated parking and assistance upon request.
Can I bring gifts or take photos inside the hospital?
Consult staff before bringing gifts. Photography is prohibited in patient areas.
Are guided tours available?
HAM periodically offers tours focusing on art and history. Hospital tours are by appointment for specific groups.
