The City hall was built by a famous architect who designed the city and many buildings in Helsinki. He was responsible for the grid system in Hameenlinna. The city will be celebrating it's 375th anniversary next year. The city hall itself was built in 1888, and was renovated about 10 years ago.
The City Council chambers. They meet in here once a month to discuss business. Municipalities in Finland have more responsibilities than American ones. The city covers social welfare programs such as health and education. There are 59 council members which also participate in other councils.
Sari and Oli leading us around the building.
A little portable fireplace that is designed by a Hameenlinna artist.
Some Finnish snacks, the little rocks were chocolate and the two pastries were meat pies (both delicious).
Another piece of art from a local artist.
Welcome to the jail! The basement is now used as a banquet area.
These are traditional Finnish handicrafts, women made these as dowries. These rug like pieces were hung on the walls as insulation and also used as blankets.
Oli, a professor emeritus who works in Helsinki. Thank you for your greater insights to Finnish culture.
The first woman Chairman of the City Council of Hameenlinna, Sari. Graciously informed us about city structure and the town itself.
All the many Rotary flags from Finland (which are smaller than the American counterparts).
Vanajavesi Rotarians
The group with the Vanajavesi club president.
Markku Raimovaara who told us about his work at the university as a professor of water and waste management.
Karhu!
The Ladies decided to check out the Dubliner in Lahti across the street from our hotel.
2 euro drink special was very worth the people watching.
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