Iisalmi is a town and municipality located in the North Savo region of Finland. Situated approximately 87 kilometers north of Kuopio and south of Kajaani, it serves as a regional hub known for its industrial exports, educational institutions, and cultural events. As of June 30, 2025, the population stands at 20,330, making it the second-largest town in North Savo after Kuopio. The municipality spans 872.20 square kilometers, with about 109.22 square kilometers covered by water, resulting in a population density of 26.65 inhabitants per square kilometer. Iisalmi is unilingually Finnish and operates in the Eastern European Time zone (UTC+02:00, shifting to UTC+03:00 during daylight saving time). In recent years, it has gained recognition as an export-oriented industrial town and a key educational center in the region.
Positioned at coordinates 63°33′24″N 27°11′18″E, Iisalmi is
characterized by its lakeland environment, typical of eastern Finland.
The area boasts 111 lakes, with the largest including Lake Onkivesi,
Lake Haapajärvi, Lake Porovesi, and Lake Nerkoo. These water bodies
contribute significantly to the local landscape, supporting recreational
activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The terrain is a mix
of forests, hills, and waterways, providing ample opportunities for
outdoor pursuits like hiking and skiing.
While specific climate
data isn't detailed in core sources, Iisalmi experiences a subarctic
climate with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Average winter
temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F), ideal for winter sports, while
summers see highs around 20°C (68°F). The region is also prone to aurora
borealis sightings, with recent reports noting displays on October 18
and 20, 2025. The natural surroundings include beaches like Perttu's
Beach and the City Beach, as well as the Paloisvuori ski center for
downhill skiing, snowboarding, and frisbee golf.
Iisalmi's origins date back to 1627 when the parish was established
around a local church. The Gustav Adolf Church, an old wooden structure,
was consecrated in 1780 and remains a historical landmark. During the
18th century, under Swedish rule, the area saw conflict with Imperial
Russia, notably the Battle of Koljonvirta in 1808, which marked one of
Sweden's last victories on Finnish soil before Finland was ceded to
Russia in 1809. Iisalmi officially gained town status on October 20,
1891.
The name "Iisalmi" has roots in Finnish etymology, linked
to local studies on place names. Historical sites like the Koljonvirta
battlefield and the old church highlight the town's role in regional
conflicts and religious history.
As of mid-2025, Iisalmi's population is 20,330, with 95.4% speaking Finnish as their native language and 4.6% other languages. The age distribution includes 14.9% under 15, 58% between 15 and 64, and 27.2% aged 65 or older. This reflects a relatively aging population, common in rural Finnish areas, though the town's industrial and educational sectors attract younger residents and workers.
Iisalmi is an export-driven economy, often hailed as a "Finnish
economic miracle" in the Ylä-Savo region due to strong industrial
growth. Key companies include Olvi, Finland's last major independent
beer brewery, which maintains its factory and headquarters here. Recent
2025 reports show Olvi sustaining strong market shares amid investments,
with Q3 earnings indicating stable net sales and improved margins. Other
prominent firms are Genelec (active monitors and loudspeakers for
recording studios), Normet (mining and tunneling equipment), and Profile
Vehicles (ambulances and police cars). These industries draw more
workers than locally available, boosting employment.
Infrastructure supports growth, with the Iisalmi railway station on the
VR network (electrified to Oulu in 2006) facilitating transport. In
2025, fiber network expansions by KaisaNet are planned in Iisalmi and
nearby areas, enhancing digital connectivity. The town also participates
in Finland's green transition initiatives, aligning with national
sustainability efforts in areas like clean energy and AI.
Despite its size, Iisalmi hosts vibrant cultural events.
"Rompepäivät" is an annual gathering showcasing vintage items, from
antiques to restored vehicles, fostering community nostalgia. Music
festivals include "Oluset" in July, sponsored by Olvi, featuring beer
and live performances, and the family-friendly "Limuset." The 017Fest in
2025 highlighted local acts like Edward Suonsilmä.
Local cuisine
features "Muurinpohjalettu," a thin wheat-barley pancake voted as the
parish dish in the 1980s. Kuappi holds the Guinness record for the
world's smallest restaurant. Music heritage includes the band Halavatun
Papat and notables like composer Joonas Kokkonen, singer Jaakko Teppo,
and jazz pianist Jarmo Savolainen.
Sports are integral, with
clubs like PK-37 (football), IPK (ice hockey), and facilities for
floorball, riding, gym, swimming, motorsports, bowling, and minigolf.
The Iisalmi Youth Center supports cultural activities.
As a significant study town, Iisalmi offers educational opportunities, though specifics on institutions are limited in sources. Transportation includes the railway station connecting to major lines, roads linking to Kuopio and beyond, and local amenities like beaches and ski centers.
The local government is led by Mayor Jarmo Ronkainen, with Juho Pulkka as City Board Chairman and Kati Åhman as City Council Chairman. Iisalmi falls under the Upper Savo sub-region. Twin towns or international ties aren't detailed, but the town engages in regional collaborations.