Modernism at the University Campus Centre

A guided tour of the University of Helsinki's central campus exploring modern architecture. The main attraction is Metsätalo, designed by Jussi Paatela and completed in 1939 - the university's first functionalist building, whose interiors feature seven different types of wood. The tour also examines Porthania and the building at Unioninkatu 35 from the outside, both representing the architectural transformation of their era and the stylistic ideals of modernism.

The tours are organized by the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Arts, with art history students serving as guides. The summer programme includes 13 different walking tours in total. This tour takes place on 3.7., 14.7. and 5.8.2026 from 14.00 to 15.00.

The meeting point is the main entrance of Metsätalo (Fabianinkatu 39); arrive 5-10 minutes before the start. Tours are held regardless of weather. Entry is free and no advance registration is required. Tours are conducted in English.

Accessibility: the tour is approximately 700 metres long and runs mainly outdoors. Metsätalo is visited indoors, and the building's rear has an accessible entrance. The tour includes stairs.