Memorial of J.V Snellman

The J.V. Snellman Memorial is a bronze sculpture by artist Pekka Jylhä depicting the Finnish philosopher and statesman in this Kokkola neighborhood. It occupies a location near a historic residence where Snellman once stayed during his years in the city.

Snellman lived in Kokkola from 1813 to 1820, spending those years exploring the local Kokkokivi rocks and forming his philosophical ideas. The memorial itself was created in 2006 to honor his legacy in the city.

The memorial marks Snellman's role in promoting Finnish language and national consciousness, which remains visible in how locals regard this public space. The sculpture anchors a neighborhood shaped by his intellectual legacy.

The memorial is located on Kaarlelankatu in an easy-to-reach part of the city, accessible by foot. Visitors can explore the neighborhood and view nearby historic buildings from the era when Snellman lived there.

The sculpture references Snellman's passion for climbing and exploring the Kokkokivi rocks, a formative part of his youth in the city. This personal connection to the land is reflected in how the memorial links his intellectual development to the natural landscape.

Location: Kokkola

Inception: 2006

Creator: Pekka Jylhä

GPS coordinates: 63.83935,23.13741

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:44