Seinäjoki

This centre is the administrative and cultural centre of Seinäjoki. The centre was designed by Alvar Aalto, a renowned Finnish architect and designer of the 20th century and one of the most important architects in the world, and as such part of the Aalto Works . His work includes outstanding architecture, furniture, textiles and glassware. The Aalto Centre is composed of six buildings which were mainly completed between 1960 and 1968. The first building created was the church, Lakeuden Risti ("Cross on the Plain") and the last one, the theatre, in 1987.

There was a competition for the design of Seinäjoki church which took place in 1951. There was no agreement because Aalto’s design did not follow some patterns required. Finally the construction took place until 1957–1960. The adjacent congregational centre was constructed in 1965–1966. The church seats 1200 people, the gallery another 124 and the small chapel 50 people. Everything, even in the interior, was designed by Alvar Aalto. It is absolutely a fascinating and impressive to see how perfect the measurements and details in the inside are. As part of the church there is a cross bell tower, which is 65 m, Seinäjoki’s highest building, which can be visited as well. There is an elevator and 36 more steps to get to the top of the tower; if you ask one of the church wardens you can ride the elevator to the top of the church tower for €1.

The competition for the City Hall design took place in 1958–1959. It was constructed in 1961–1962. The Council's meeting chamber is also used for concerts. The façade of the City Hall is clad with special blue porcelain rods. The whole interior of the building is characterized with Aalto’s singular style and design.

The City Library - Regional Library, the architectural pearl of the Aalto Centre, was constructed in 1964–1965. The open book shaped building is a very unique design. There is free Wi-Fi and computers with scanner/printer connection. Check also in the bookmobiles if you happen to stumble upon them.

This building constructed in 1966–1968 holds many city and state offices in Seinäjoki. Its most significant feature in the interior is the court room.

Alvar Aalto presented his plans for the theatre building as early as 1969, but its construction was not carried out until 1986–1987 under Elissa Aalto's supervision. The theatre seats 429 people and the small stage 120. In the lobby there are famous wooden reliefs and Aalto’s biggest glass designs exhibition.

Church built 1513–1533. Wall paintings from 1560.