Grave of the Soldier memorials in Helsinki
Helsinki’s “Grave of the Soldier” memorials include three sites: the solitary Crimean War grave in Lauttasaari, the collective war graves and Heroes’ Place at Hietaniemi Cemetery, and the National Memorial of the Winter War at Kasarmitori Square. Together, they commemorate Finnish military sacrifice from the defense of Helsinki during the Crimean War to the Winter and Continuation Wars, and reflect Finland’s evolving traditions of remembrance (HAM Helsinki; Discovering Finland; Everybody Hates A Tourist).
History
The Lauttasaari grave marks the resting place of Josef Johan Israelinpoika Back, who died on August 9, 1855, defending the island of Särkiniemi during the Crimean War. Finland was then part of the Russian Empire, and Helsinki’s islands became a frontline as British and French fleets pressed Russian defenses in the Baltic Sea (HAM Helsinki). The grave’s Swedish inscription reflects Finland’s bilingual heritage and the administrative language of the era.
Finland lost approximately 93,500 soldiers in World War II. Many are buried at Hietaniemi Cemetery, which honors those who fell in the Winter War, Continuation War, and Lapland War. Repatriation and identification of fallen soldiers remain ongoing efforts, led by organizations such as the Association for Cherishing the Memory of the Dead of the War (PMC Article).
The Heroes’ Place at Hietaniemi is a focal point for national ceremonies, including wreath-laying and moments of silence attended by Finnish dignitaries and citizens, especially on Independence Day, December 6.
The City of Helsinki, veterans’ organizations, and the Finnish Defence Forces maintain the military memorials. Research and identification of unknown soldiers continue, providing closure to families and upholding Finland’s tradition of remembrance (PMC Article).
What to see
Grave of the Soldier in Lauttasaari
Located in Maamonlahden puisto, Lauttasaari, the grave is marked by a simple iron cannonball. It symbolizes artillery warfare and the personal cost of defending one’s homeland; the understated design emphasizes individual sacrifice.
Hietaniemi Cemetery and Heroes’ Place
Hietaniemi Cemetery (Hietaniemen hautausmaa) is in the Töölö district. Helsinki’s largest cemetery and the central site for national war remembrance, it includes collective war graves and the Heroes’ Place, marked by uniform white crosses, mature trees, and landscaped gardens (Discovering Finland).
National Memorial of the Winter War
Unveiled in 2017 and designed by Pekka Kauhanen, the National Memorial of the Winter War stands at Kasarmitori Square in central Helsinki. Its official name is “He Who Brings the Light” (Everybody Hates A Tourist). The modern sculpture features a stainless steel figure atop a base with 105 perforations, each symbolizing a day of the Winter War (1939–1940). Visitors can look through the holes to see historic photographs.
Reflective surfaces and night-time illumination create a contemplative atmosphere. The memorial is surrounded by benches and flat, paved surfaces.
Practical visiting information
Lauttasaari
- Location Maamonlahden puisto, Lauttasaari, Helsinki
- Hours Open year-round and accessible any time as a public park
- Entry Free; no tickets or reservations required
- Accessibility Paved pathways are generally suitable for most visitors, though some uneven ground may be present
- Directions Take a tram or bus from Helsinki city center to Lauttasaari, then walk a short distance
Hietaniemi Cemetery
- Address Hietaniemenkatu 20, 00100 Helsinki
- Hours Open daily. Summer (May–September): 8:00 AM–8:00 PM. Winter (October–April): 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
- Entry Free
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and seating
- Getting there Tram lines 1, 2, and 8, as well as several bus routes, serve the area
- Guided tours Available through local operators; advance booking is recommended
- Photography Permitted, but respect privacy during ceremonies
National Memorial of the Winter War
- Location Kasarmitori Square, central Helsinki
- Hours Open 24/7 as a public square
- Entry Free; no ticket required
- Accessibility Fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
- Guided tours Frequently included in Helsinki walking tours, often with English commentary
- Visitor facilities There are no dedicated facilities at the memorial, but cafes and restrooms are available nearby
- When to visit Daytime for viewing the photographs; evening for the illuminated atmosphere
Tips and local customs
On Finnish Independence Day, it is customary to place blue-and-white candles in windows and light candles at graves, especially at Hietaniemi’s Heroes’ Place (HerFinland). Public ceremonies include military honors and speeches. Visitors should remain respectful, avoid loud conversation, and follow guidelines for recycling and waste disposal (Tangled Up In Food).
- Visit on national remembrance days for ceremonies.
- Dress respectfully, especially during formal events.
- Allow time for reflection; a guided tour can provide historical context.
- Consider using the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date information.
Nearby places
Nearby landmarks and attractions include Suomenlinna Fortress, the Sibelius Monument, Hietaranta Beach, the National Museum of Finland, and the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM). The Lauttasaari grave visit can also be combined with Hietaniemi Cemetery, and Hietaniemi with Suomenlinna Fortress or the National Museum of Finland (MyHelsinki).
- Suomenlinna Fortress
- Hietaniemi Cemetery
- Finnish Soldiers’ Grave in Vanha Kirkkopuisto
- Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral
- Helsinki City Museum and Bank of Finland Museum
Frequently asked questions
Are the memorials free to visit?
Yes. All sites discussed are free and open to the public.
What are the best ways to reach these sites?
All memorials are accessible by tram, bus, or on foot from central Helsinki.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available at Hietaniemi Cemetery and as part of Helsinki city tours.
Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
The major sites have paved paths; some older areas may have limited accessibility.
Can I take photographs?
Yes. Photography is permitted, but be respectful during ceremonies.
