Welcome to Serlachius Museums in Mänttä
Serlachius Museums are among Finland’s most unique cultural treasures, blending world-class art, history and nature in one unforgettable destination as when travelers choose Finland tour packages they often add Serlachius Museums to their journey because it offers so much more than just galleries which is surrounded by lakes and forests, Serlachius Museums invite you to explore the famous Gösta Serlachius Museum, the peaceful Serlachius Art Sauna and even meet international creators through the Serlachius Residency and whether you love Finnish Golden Age masterpieces or want to experience modern exhibitions in a stunning lakeside setting, Serlachius Museums give you a taste of Finland’s rich artistic spirit.
What Makes Serlachius Museums Special?
- Serlachius Museums is run by the Gösta Serlachius Fine Arts Foundation.
- It comprises two main museum sites plus related programs: Serlachius Manor (Gösta Serlachius Museum / “Gösta” side) and Serlachius Headquarters / Gustaf Museum.
- It also includes Serlachius Residency (for artists, curators), Serlachius Art Sauna, restaurant, museum shops, exhibitions, events.
Key Attractions of Serlachius Museums
Serlachius Museum Gösta – The Historic Manor and Pavilion
- Gösta Serlachius’ old private home, built in 1935 as a manor house by architect Jarl Eklund.
- Since 1945 there has been a section of the estate utilized as an art museum where Serlachius Art Collection is displayed.
- They installed a wooden-constructed pavilion (annex) in 2014 containing space for theme and contemporary exhibitions.
- The manor is lakeside scenery (Lake Melasjärvi), park landscaping, statues (e.g. by Harry Kivijärvi), promenade paths and island Taavetinsaari are open to visit in the summer.
- Serlachius Art Sauna: On the shore of the manor, merging art, nature and sauna tradition as beautiful architecture and public sauna days.
Serlachius Headquarters Gustaf – Stories of Industry and Patrons
- Located in the centre of Mänttä, at R. Erik Serlachiuksen katu 2.
- This old headquarters of the G. A. Serlachius paper company is itself architecturally interesting (classic + functionalism style).
- Permanent exhibition “Patrons” tells the story of the Serlachius family, their role in industry, art, supporting Golden Age artists etc.
- Also has gallery spaces for temporary shows, an experiential area “The World of the Forest” for families, a café and shop.
Serlachius Residency – Creative Home for Artists and Curators
- Started in 2015 which is a place for visual artists, curators & art historians to come for 1-4 months (or in some cases longer) to work, create and connect.
- They get free rent for accommodation and workspace. In return, they may share work, sometimes exhibit, interact with local community.
What to See and Do at Serlachius Museums
- Golden Age Finnish Art: Artists you’ll find include Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Helene Schjerfbeck, Albert Edelfelt, Hugo Simberg among others.
- Old European Masters: Especially in the manor, you’ll see select works from France etc. Monet’s A Haystack in the Evening Sun is one famous piece.
- Temporary & Contemporary shows: The pavilion next to the manor hosts international contemporary art exhibits.
- Art Sauna: A blend of Finnish sauna culture, art, design and architecture. Perfect for relaxing after exploring galleries.
- Walking in the Park / Sculpture Collection: Serlachius Manor’s park has sculptures, views of lake, trails. In summer, the island Taavetinsaari shows art amid nature.
- Restaurant Gösta & Café Autere Cottage: Seasonal menus, local food, café by lakeside etc.
Practical Information for Visiting Serlachius Museums
- Opening hours:
- Summer (1 June to 31 August): daily except on some days when the museum is usually closed.
- Winter (1 September to 31 May): closed on Mondays and open Tuesday-Sunday.
- Summer (1 June to 31 August): daily except on some days when the museum is usually closed.
- Tickets: One ticket gives access to both Serlachius Manor (Gösta) and Serlachius Headquarters (Gustaf).
- Prices: (approximate, check current) museum entry, art sauna public sauna day ticket etc.
- How to reach: By car, train & local transport, even a shared taxi from nearby stations. In summer you may hire a bike or borrow rowing boats.
- Accessibility: Serlachius Museums try to be accessible: physical access, sensory aspects etc.
Why Serlachius Museums Stand Out in Finland
- They combine art + nature: museums in lakeside setting, walking trails, parks, sauna, architecture.
- Deep historic roots: the Serlachius family’s story, Finland’s Golden Age art, local industrial history.
- Contemporary voice: newer pavilions, temporary shows, artist residencies. So you see both tradition & what’s happening now.
- Experience beyond just “look”: eat well, relax in a sauna, enjoy landscapes.
Visitor Tips for Serlachius Museums and Gösta Serlachius Museum
- If you come in summer, expect to stay outside longer: good footwear, maybe a swimsuit if sauna is something that could appeal to you.
- Check the schedule ahead — temporary exhibitions change, residencies may host public events.
- If coming by public transport, check train schedules to Vilppula and then local taxi or museum shuttle.
- For art lovers, reading up about the Golden Age Finnish art helps: names like Gallen-Kallela, Edelfelt, Schjerfbeck. Makes seeing their works more meaningful.
- For those keen on architecture & design, the annex pavilion + art sauna are must-sees.
Frequently Asked Questions about Serlachius Museums
Question | Answer |
What is in the art collection? | ~10,000 pieces e.g. Finnish Golden Age, European old masters, contemporary and modern art. |
How much time do I need? | To do both museums, art sauna, walk in the park: at least half a day. Full day if you want to relax, eat, see temporary shows. |
Is Serlachius Residency open to public? | The Serlachius Residency is mainly for invited artists/curators etc, not general tourists. But there are public events (exhibitions, coffee gatherings) connected. |
Do I need to speak Finnish? | No. Exhibits and signage are in English too; staff can manage in English. |
Is visiting the art sauna included in museum ticket? | No, usually Art Sauna public sauna days require separate ticket. But museum ticket may get you into some combined offers. |
Best season to visit? | Summer for full experience (park, nature, cafés open, longer hours). But winter is quieter, and some exhibits are still open. Sauna is year-round. |
Summary: Why Serlachius Museums Are a Must-Visit in Finland
If you visit Serlachius Museums, this is what you have achieved:
- Two museum sites (Manor/Gösta & Headquarters/Gustaf) in Mänttä, Finland.
- A huge private art collection (about 10,000 works) with both Finnish Golden Age pieces and European masters, plus contemporary art.
- Beautiful museums, architecture, lake views, park, sculpture, a unique art sauna and a residency that brings in new creative voices.
- Good food, café, shop. Accessible, friendly, especially in summer.
Final Thoughts on Exploring Serlachius Museums with Finland Tour Packages
Serlachius Museums bring together art, history, nature and Finnish culture in a way that feels both inspiring and personal as many travelers who book Finland tour packages make sure to include Serlachius Museums in their plans because it offers much more than just a museum visit and from the Gösta Serlachius Museum’s classic and contemporary exhibitions to the relaxing Serlachius Art Sauna and the innovative Serlachius Residency, every corner adds to the experience which chooses Serlachius Museums as part of your journey means you do not just see Finland so you truly feel its creative heart.