Pelkosenniemi, municipality in the region of Lapland in Finland
Pelkosenniemi is a small municipality in northern Finland located in Lapland, surrounded by dense forests and lakes, with fewer than 1000 residents across the entire area. The village center (Kirkonkylä) with about 300 people sits beside a river and contains a simple church, a small square, and basic local services.
Paavali Pelkonen arrived in 1664 without official permission and founded the first settlement in a region originally inhabited by the Sámi people. The area remained part of Sodankylä until 1916 when Pelkosenniemi became its own parish.
The name Pelkosenniemi comes from Paavali Pelkonen, the first settler in the 1670s, and the 1929 church has served as the community's gathering place for generations. Residents keep local traditions alive through outdoor activities and seasonal celebrations that connect families to the land and each other.
Pelkosenniemi is best reached by car since public transportation is limited. The trails through the forest and along the lakes are best explored on foot or by bike, especially during warmer months.
Andy McCoy, guitarist of the Finnish rock band Hanoi Rocks, was born in this small community and brought it recognition in the music world. A monument in the village square marks his connection to this quiet place.
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