The main cultural assets of Finland

Finland’s cultural and natural heritage is rich and distinctive. The era from prehistoric archaeological sites to modern architecture, and from the national epic Kalevala and other long-term traditions to latest achievements of creative arts, is the foundation of the Finnish cultural identity, spiced also with a unique love for nature.

The legal framework on cultural heritage conservation

The cultural environment (landscapes, archaeological heritage and built environments) is carefully safeguarded by relevant expert institutions, guidelines and legislation. For example, one goal of land use planning in Finland is to promote the beauty of the built environment and the protection of cultural values. More information: UNESCO Database of National Cultural Heritage Laws. As to the richness and specificity of the Finnish intangible cultural heritage, see the national Wiki-inventory of Living Heritage.

The cultural and natural sites on the World Heritage List

There are six cultural heritage sites and one natural heritage site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The world heritage activity is guided, amongst others, by the National World Heritage Strategy 2015–2025 Our Common heritage and its implementation plan. Cooperation and dialogue between responsible stakeholders are key elements in maintaining the sites. The sites constitute also diverse learning environments that support sustainable development and lifelong learning.

Finland is a Member State of ICCROM since 03/07/1981

Mandates in ICCROM Council since 1958:

ICCROM Staff since 1959: 2

Governmental Cultural Institutions

• The Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for overseeing policy and legislation concerning state-owned cultural heritage.
  
• The Finnish Heritage Agency is responsible for development of the museum sector and serves in an administrative capacity on matters related to cultural heritage and cultural environment.
  
• The National Museum of Finland operates as part of the Finnish Heritage Agency.
  
• The Arts Promotion Centre Finland is an expert and service agency for promoting the arts.
  

Museums and Cultural Heritage Institutions

• The Finnish Museums Association trains and develops the Finnish museum sector.
  
• The Finnish Local Heritage Federation promotes local heritage work.
  
• The Association of Cultural Heritage Education in Finland promotes education in cultural heritage and cultural environment.
  
• The Finnish Antiquarian Society is a scholarly society for promoting research on Finland and other Finno-Ugrian peoples and regions.
  
• The Finnish Cultural Heritage Foundation works to preserve Finnish cultural heritage.
  
• ICOM Finland
  
• ICOMOS Finland
  
• The Nordic Association of Conservators - Finland
  
• The Association of World Heritage Sites in Finland develops cooperation between the sites.
  
• Europa Nostra Finland
  

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