Villa Hakasalmi, Public building and museum in Helsinki, Finland.
Villa Hakasalmi is a residence and museum beside Töölönlahti bay with Empire-style architecture consisting of a main house and two wings. The buildings sit within a park that provides green space around the structures.
Procurator Carl Johan Walleen built this residence in 1843 as a combined city and countryside home to serve his dual lifestyle. The City of Helsinki acquired the property in 1896 and transformed it into a public institution.
The house shows how wealthy families lived in the 1800s, with furniture and personal items still arranged in the rooms as they were used then. Visitors can see the daily routines and spaces that served specific purposes in that era.
The location is easily accessible by public transport and sits along a main street that is straightforward to find. The interior spaces spread across multiple levels, so visitors should expect some stairs throughout the visit.
One of the side wings contains a café serving vegan soups and plant-based dishes, an unexpected feature in a historic manor house setting. This blend of history and modern dining attracts visitors who enjoy both aspects of the experience.
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