The City of Helsinki is testing a temporary protective structure in preparation for possible public celebrations during the Eurovision final and the Ice Hockey World Championships. Photo: Roni Rekomaa / Lehtikuva
- Next Article Traffic disruptions expected as major running events take over Helsinki streets
The City of Helsinki has enclosed the iconic Havis Amanda statue with steel and plywood screens in anticipation of possible large-scale public celebrations linked to upcoming international events.
The protective measure, implemented for the first time at this scale, is a pre-emptive effort to shield the landmark from damage, should Finland celebrate victories at either the Eurovision Song Contest or the Ice Hockey World Championships in the coming weeks.
Known locally as “Manta,” the early 20th-century statue sits at the centre of a fountain near the capital’s market square and has long been a focal point for public festivities. In past years, celebrations, particularly following Finnish ice hockey victories, have seen fans climbing the statue, often under the influence of alcohol.
These incidents have caused repeated damage, prompting the City to act.
The Eurovision final will take place this Saturday in Basel, with Finland represented by Erika Vikman and, unusually, also by KAJ, a Swedish-speaking Finnish act competing for Sweden. If either act wins, spontaneous celebrations are expected in central Helsinki.
The men’s Ice Hockey World Championship final is scheduled for Sunday, 25 May. Should Finland’s national team reach and win the final, another large public gathering is anticipated.
Previous attempts to deter crowds with temporary fencing have proven ineffective. The new reinforced enclosure, designed to prevent climbing and provide stronger physical protection, will remain in place until at least 23 May. If Finland’s hockey team progresses to the final, the screen will remain until 26 May.
The City has allocated approximately €20,000 for the installation and eventual removal of the structure.
“Havis Amanda was only recently refurbished. We must ensure it is not subjected to further damage,” said Juha Ahonen, head of Helsinki’s Division of Culture and Leisure.
HT
- Next Article Traffic disruptions expected as major running events take over Helsinki streets
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
