Helsinki Deaconess Institute

The Helsinki Deaconess Institute is a protected foundation housed in a building designed by Magnus Schjerfbeck in the early 1900s, located at Alppikatu 2. The structure displays architectural features from that period and contains an exhibition space where visitors can learn about the organization's history and ongoing work.

Founded between 1904 and 1906, it was Finland's first Deaconess Foundation, offering medical care and training for young women. From these origins, it evolved into an established institution still active in healthcare and social services today.

The name reflects its roots in the Deaconess movement, and visitors perceive the building as a place where care and support are central to its purpose. You can feel the connection between the architectural space and the social work carried out here for over a century.

The exhibition space is open on weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM and sits in a quiet residential neighborhood of Helsinki. It is worth checking ahead if guided tours or special visiting hours are available to make the most of your visit to the building and its displays.

Since February 2022, the organization has supported over 130,000 Ukrainian individuals through international partnerships, expanding its humanitarian work beyond the local community. This aid demonstrates how a traditional Finnish institution applies its values during global crises.

Location: Helsinki

Inception: 1906

Architects: Magnus Schjerfbeck

Industry: hospitals and rehabilitation

Part of: Eläintarhan huvilat ja yleishyödylliset laitokset

Website: https://hdl.fi

GPS coordinates: 60.18472,24.93889

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44