Havis Amanda is one of the most iconic sculptures in Helsinki, located by the South Harbour between Market Square and the Esplanadi boulevard. Created by Paris-trained sculptor Ville Vallgren and unveiled in 1908, the statue depicts a young mermaid rising from the sea, surrounded by fish and sea lions. It represents the “awakening of Helsinki as a maritime city” and has become a key cultural landmark of Finland. Thanks to its position next to ferry piers to Suomenlinna, historic buildings and numerous Helsinki restaurants and kahvila nearby, Havis Amanda is included in almost every walking route through the city centre.
Over the decades, the sculpture has become the focal point of several major traditions. Every year on April 30th, university students place a white graduation cap on the statue, officially opening the Vappu celebrations — one of the biggest annual festivities in Finland. In summer the fountain attracts street musicians, locals and visitors, serving as a natural meeting place between Esplanadi, Market Square and the seafront. The artwork maintains a consistently high rating among travellers thanks to its art-nouveau aesthetics, maritime symbolism and lively surroundings. For many visitors, Havis Amanda is a must-see spot that captures the spirit of Helsinki as a seaside city.
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