Mikkeli, Regional capital in Southern Savonia, Finland.
Mikkeli is the capital of the South Savo region in southeastern Finland, situated amid an expansive lake district. The town center sits along the shore of the Saimaa water system and is surrounded by forests and numerous smaller islands.
The settlement received town rights in the 16th century and developed as a regional trading center. During the Second World War the place served as military headquarters, which significantly influenced the further development of the town.
The name derives from the Finnish expression for the Archangel Michael, to whom the local cathedral is also dedicated. In summer the city hosts horse racing events that draw visitors from across the region and shape local social life.
The center is easy to explore on foot, while many points of interest are reachable by bicycle. The university of applied sciences offers public events and library access for visitors.
Nearby are the rock paintings of Astuvansalmi, dating from around 4100 before Christ. These depictions are considered the largest collection of prehistoric rock art in the Nordic countries.
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