Sodankylä–Sompio offers a wide variety of sights and experiences.
Explore the region’s cultural history and visit its atmospheric museums, wool center, churches and gallery. Maybe you are lucky enough to find gold and amethysts along your way in Lapland. These places give you a deeper understanding of the history and people of Sodankylä–Sompio.
Discover the attractions below.
Sodankylä Local Heritage Museum
The Sodankylä Local Heritage Museum is an impressive destination in a beautiful riverside setting. The highlight of the courtyard is the main building rescued from the village of Riesto, which was submerged under the Lokka reservoir. You can explore the museum independently or ask the staff on-site for a guided introduction to the exhibits and artefacts. A visit gives you a clear picture of the traditional home, village, and livelihood culture of the Sodankylä region. Entry to the Museum is free of charge.
The Old Church of Sodankylä
In the beautiful riverside woods along the Kitinen River, next to the cemetery, stands the Old Church of Sodankylä—one of the oldest surviving wooden churches in Finland. Built in 1689 for the people of Central Lapland, the church was restored in 1926, and its shingle roof and exterior cladding were repaired between 1992 and 1995 by the Finnish Heritage Agency. The Old Church has preserved its authenticity and atmosphere through the centuries. During the summer, devotional services are held there, and it remains a popular wedding church.
More information is available on the Sodankylä parish website.
The New Church of Sodankylä
The area around the Old and New Churches, with its wooded cemetery and riverbanks, is always a beautiful place for a walk. In 1852, Emperor Nikolai I approved the construction of a new church in Sodankylä with state funding, and it was decided that the building would stand in the same churchyard as the old one. The architectural plans were later approved by Emperor Alexander II. The new church was consecrated at the end of October 1859, and it still serves today as the main church of the Sodankylä parish, where regular services are held.
More information is available on the Sodankylä parish website.
Museum-Gallery Andreas Alariesto
Andreas Alariesto (1900–1989) was a remarkable visual artist, preserver of folklore, photographer, craftsman, and songwriter. His colourful, lively, and naïve-style paintings draw you into the authentic atmosphere and romance of old Lapland. You’ll find the Museum-Gallery Andreas Alariesto in the heart of Sodankylä, near the church and the reindeer statue, inside the Sodankylä House.
The Gold Museum
The world’s only international Gold Museum is located in Tankavaara, Sodankylä. The Gold Museum takes you on a journey through the golden history of Lapland. The journey continues around the world in a unique international exhibition, under the world’s largest gold pan. Learn how gold has been mined in Lapland and around the world, how people lived in the gold fields and what gold is used for. The Gold Museum’s extensive indoor and outdoor exhibitions will introduce you to the secrets of gold mining – you can also try panning yourself! When the gold fever strikes, you can buy your own gold pan, real Lapland gold and many other products of the gold fields.
Tankavaara Gold Village
In the Gold Village, founded by gold prospectors, you can sense the authentic spirit of Lapland everywhere. Head out on a safari, enjoy the best local flavours, and stay comfortably. Located right along Highway 4, the Gold Village offers everything a traveller in Lapland might need, from dining and accommodation to unforgettable experiences. In summer, you can learn how to pan for gold, and in winter, you can join daily reindeer or snowmobile safaris. The village rises on the edge of Urho Kekkonen National Park, giving you easy access to the atmosphere of Finland’s most legendary wilderness.
Arctic Wool Experience center
Arctic Wool Experience Center brings together an exhibition, a gallery and workshops. Here, wool transforms into art and art into an experience. During your visit, you can explore wool art, felt works, the exhibition space and handmade products. The center also features a shop and a café — welcome!
lampivaara amethyst mine
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine is one of the few gemstone mines in the world that welcomes visitors year‑round. You can experience the stunning scenery at the top of Lampivaara, where the mine is located, and hear fascinating stories about the area’s geology, the formation of amethyst, and the beliefs surrounding it. During the tour, every visitor gets the chance to dig for their own lucky amethyst — and keep their finding.