Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum | Turku

The Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum in Turku, Finland, is a unique museum that combines two distinct yet complementary elements: the archaeological and contemporary art. The museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through time, from medieval Turku to the cutting-edge world of modern art. It is housed in a historic building in the heart of the city, making it a prominent cultural destination in Turku.

History and Significance

The Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum is an art and archaeology museum that merges the exploration of the ancient history of Turku with an appreciation for contemporary Finnish art. The museum was founded in 1995 and has since become an important cultural institution in the city. Its name, Aboa Vetus, refers to the ancient (or medieval) Turku, while Ars Nova means "new art," representing the museum's modern art component.

The museum is built around the remains of medieval Turku, discovered during construction work in the early 1990s. These ruins, which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, are integrated into the museum’s design, providing visitors with a tangible link to Turku’s medieval past. The museum blends the old and the new, providing a rich and varied cultural experience.

Location and Building

The museum is centrally located in Turku, not far from the Turku Cathedral and other historical landmarks. It occupies a historic building that was previously a part of a 16th-century merchant house. The museum's location allows visitors to explore the surrounding historic district of Turku, which is rich in medieval and early modern architecture.

Aboa Vetus Section: Archaeological Discoveries

The Aboa Vetus part of the museum is dedicated to the archaeology of medieval Turku, showcasing the city’s historical evolution from its earliest days. The exhibits focus on the medieval era, particularly the 14th and 15th centuries, when Turku was a bustling trade and cultural center in Finland. Key highlights include:

Medieval Ruins: Visitors can explore the medieval ruins that were uncovered during excavations in the 1990s. The archaeological site includes cellars, streets, foundations of buildings, and artifacts such as pottery, tools, and coins, providing a fascinating insight into daily life in medieval Turku.

Interactive Exhibits: The museum uses interactive exhibits to bring the medieval past to life. Visitors can experience reconstructions of medieval buildings and explore how Turku’s residents lived, worked, and interacted in the past.

Historical Artifacts: The museum displays a variety of archaeological finds from the medieval period, including tools, ceramics, weapons, and religious objects. These items offer a glimpse into the material culture of Turku during its early history.

Medieval Life: The museum provides an in-depth look at various aspects of medieval life in Turku, including religion, commerce, craftsmanship, and urban living. Visitors can explore how the city functioned as a hub of trade and culture in the medieval Baltic region.

Ars Nova Section: Contemporary Art

The Ars Nova section of the museum is dedicated to contemporary art, focusing on Finnish and international artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. The museum features a wide range of art forms, from painting and sculpture to video installations and multimedia works. Highlights include:

Contemporary Art Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, showcasing both established and emerging artists. These exhibitions often explore current themes, including social, political, and environmental issues.

Diverse Art Forms: The museum's exhibitions feature a variety of artistic mediums, including paintings, photography, sculptures, installations, videos, and performance art. This diversity allows visitors to experience the range of contemporary artistic expression and appreciate the innovation and creativity of modern artists.

Permanent Art Collection: The museum has a growing collection of works from Finnish artists, and its focus is on creating a dynamic space where art is constantly evolving. Some notable Finnish artists featured in the museum’s collection include Kirsti Doukas, Juhani Leinonen, and Mika Hannula.

Art for All Ages: The Ars Nova section also includes interactive and educational exhibitions that are designed to engage visitors of all ages. Children and families can explore art through hands-on activities and workshops designed to foster creativity.

The Museum Experience: A Journey Through Time

The design of the museum encourages a seamless blend of the old and the new, with visitors moving between the archaeological ruins of medieval Turku and the modern art displays of the Ars Nova section. The museum offers an experience where history and art are intertwined, allowing guests to reflect on how the past shapes the present and future.

Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, providing an informative and enriching experience. The tours cover both the medieval history of Turku and the contemporary art exhibitions, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the significance of both parts of the museum.

Temporary Exhibitions and Events: In addition to its permanent collections, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events. These exhibitions often feature innovative and experimental contemporary art, making the museum a dynamic and evolving cultural space.

Cultural Programs: The museum also organizes various cultural programs, including art talks, lectures, and workshops. These programs aim to engage the public with both historical and contemporary art practices, encouraging dialogue and reflection.

Educational Value

The Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum offers valuable educational opportunities for visitors interested in history, archaeology, and art. The museum is especially popular with students and art enthusiasts, as it offers an opportunity to engage with Finnish and international art while learning about the medieval history of Turku.

Workshops and Art Classes: The museum offers workshops for children, students, and adults, where visitors can explore their own creativity and learn about the techniques used by contemporary artists.

School Programs: The museum runs educational programs for school groups, designed to help students understand both the historical aspects of medieval Turku and the relevance of contemporary art in today’s world.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Opening Hours: The museum is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months. It is a good idea to check the museum’s website for updated opening times and special events.

Admission Fees: The museum typically charges an entry fee, with discounts available for students, seniors, and families. There are also special rates for group visits.

Location: The museum is located in central Turku, near key attractions such as the Turku Cathedral and Market Square. It is easily accessible by public transport, walking, or cycling.

Museum Shop: The museum has a shop where visitors can purchase books, souvenirs, and art-related products, including works by the artists featured in the exhibitions.

Conclusion

The Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum in Turku is a fascinating cultural institution that offers an exceptional blend of archaeology and contemporary art. Its unique combination of medieval history and modern artistic expression makes it an essential destination for visitors interested in exploring both the past and the present. Whether you're interested in the medieval roots of Turku or eager to experience innovative contemporary art, this museum provides a dynamic and enriching experience for all.