Kiuruvesi is a town and municipality in the North Savo region of eastern Finland, part of the Upper Savo sub-region. Known as "Finland’s Capital of the Sustainable Development," it emphasizes eco-friendly practices and is surrounded by unspoiled nature, offering a blend of rural charm and modern sustainability. The town received its charter in 1873 and was granted town privileges in 1993. As of mid-2025, Kiuruvesi has a population of approximately 7,338, making it the 128th largest municipality in Finland. The population density is low at 5.52 inhabitants per square kilometer, with 97.9% speaking Finnish as their native language. The age distribution includes 14.5% under 15, 54.4% working-age (15-64), and 31.1% over 65. The municipality is unilingually Finnish and led by town manager Juha-Pekka Rusanen.
Kiuruvesi spans a total area of 1,422.90 square kilometers, ranking
it the 51st largest municipality in Finland, with 1,328.19 km² of land
and 94.79 km² of inland water bodies. It is situated at coordinates
63°39′N 26°37′E in a landscape dominated by boreal forests, lakes, and
flat terrain typical of inland Savo. Neighboring municipalities include
Iisalmi to the east, Pielavesi to the south, Pyhäjärvi to the west,
Pyhäntä to the northwest, and Vieremä to the north. The area features
numerous lakes, contributing to its natural appeal for outdoor
activities.
The climate is humid continental (Dfb classification),
characterized by cold, snowy winters and mild, short summers. The warm
season lasts about 3.1 months from late May to early September, with
average daily highs above 15°C (59°F); July is the hottest month,
averaging highs of 21°C (69°F) and lows around 11°C (52°F). Winters are
harsh, spanning November to March with average lows below -5°C (23°F);
February is the coldest, with lows averaging -19°C (-3°F) and highs
around -6°C (21°F). Annual precipitation is moderate, around 600-700 mm,
mostly as snow in winter. The region experiences polar day phenomena in
summer and limited daylight in winter, with potential for aurora
borealis sightings.
Kiuruvesi's roots trace back to its establishment as an independent parish in 1865, with the first church constructed in 1866. The area, originally a community of farmers, grew sufficiently by 1873 to form an independent municipality, receiving its charter that year. The skylark was adopted as the heraldic animal, symbolizing the region's agricultural heritage. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kiuruvesi developed as a regional trade and commerce center, with new businesses and factories emerging. Improved transportation links and infrastructure, including electrification in the 1920s, spurred industrial growth in agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. Post-World War II, the town underwent modernization, focusing on sustainable practices. It gained town status in 1993, reflecting its evolution from a rural settlement to a hub emphasizing ecology and ethics.
Kiuruvesi's economy is rooted in agriculture, particularly dairy and beef production, making it one of Finland's largest producers of milk and meat—a tradition dating back over a century. Forestry and metal industries are also significant pillars, supporting local employment. The town has profiled itself as a leader in sustainable development, with organic farming playing a key role in regional livelihood and combating population decline. Notable initiatives include the €80 million biogas plant in Kiuruvesi, set for completion in 2026, which will produce 125 GWh annually and has received €19.2 million in EU support. Other sectors include lake fishing, which boosts the local economy and image through ethical and ecological practices. Unemployment rates are moderate for rural Finland, with diversification into green industries helping to sustain the community amid broader economic shifts.
Kiuruvesi attracts visitors with its focus on nature, history, and
sustainable experiences, offering a peaceful alternative to urban
tourism.
Key sights include the Kiuruvesi Church (Kirkkokatu 8), a
historic wooden structure from 1866; the Local History Museum,
showcasing regional artifacts; the Statue of the Clearer, commemorating
land reclamation efforts; the Town Hall and House of Culture for
architectural and cultural interest; and the Ylä-Savo Vocational College
in Hingunniemi, known for its equine education unit. Nature lovers can
enjoy Pappila Beach (Kirkkokatu 34) for swimming and relaxation amid
scenic lakes.
Tourism emphasizes outdoor activities like hiking on
local trails, wandering in forests, and exploring outdoor recreation
areas. Accessibility is via train on the Iisalmi-Ylivieska line or by
car on Highway 27 connecting to Kalajoki and Iisalmi. Accommodation and
dining options are limited but include local spots serving traditional
Ylä-Savo cuisine, such as "mute-roasted meat," a hearty soup with
potatoes, organ meats, and blood-flour dumplings. For nightlife, Pub
Havanna (Niemistenkatu 1) offers a cozy beer restaurant experience.
Practical tips: Summers are ideal for visits due to mild weather, while
winters suit snow-based activities; book events in advance.
Kiuruvesi's culture is deeply tied to its rural roots, sustainability
ethos, and community events, fostering a laid-back lifestyle centered on
nature and local traditions. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with
access to leisure services, sports facilities, and cultural venues like
the House of Culture. Annual highlights include the Kiuruvesi
Iskelmäviikko in July, a music festival featuring schottische and dance
performers, along with singing competitions, dance courses, and
town-wide activities. Education is progressive, participating in
Finland's Lifelong Learning Programme (2007–2013), emphasizing ongoing
development.
The lifestyle is nature-oriented, with emphasis on
ethical farming, ecology, and outdoor pursuits like hiking and fishing.
The community's commitment to sustainable development influences daily
life, from organic agriculture to green energy projects. Traditional
elements, such as the skylark symbol and local delicacies, blend with
modern initiatives, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and
eco-conscious visitors. Overall, Kiuruvesi embodies authentic Finnish
countryside living, balancing tradition with forward-thinking
environmental practices.
Highway 27 runs through Kiuruvesi. Kiuruvesi railway station is
located on the Iisalmi-Ylivieska line section and is one of the
train meeting places on the line section. The city also has an
airport for small planes and a guest marina.
Distances from
Kiuruvesi
Iisalmi 35 km
Kajaani 125 km
Kuopio 120 km
Oulu 190 km
Ylivieska 125 km
Kiuruvesi
has five primary schools (preschool and grades 1-6): Kalliokylä
school, Lahnajoki school, Luupuvesi school, Niva school and Rytky
school. There is one upper secondary school (grades 7-9) (Kiuruvesi
upper secondary school) and special education is also provided in
connection with it. Kiuruvesi High School provides secondary
education and, in some lines, optional vocational education. Equine
economics can be studied at the Natural Resources Unit of Ylä-Savo
Vocational College.
Primary health services are provided by
Kiuruvesi Health Center. Cultural services are provided by, among
others, the Kiuruvesi Culture House and the Kiuruvesi City Library,
the Kiuruvesi Library Car and the Kiuruvesi Homeland Museum.
Kiuruvesi hosts the annual Kiuruvesi Iskelmäviikko and Elomessut. The locality has a strong pear tradition and a reputation as a religious keeper. The largest annual event for the people of Körtt, the Awakening Festival, was held in Kiuruvesi in July 2010, before that in 1985 and for the first time in 1899. Kiuruvesi's location on the border between Savo and Ostrobothnia creates its own special features.
Kiuruvesi's holding food is Ylä-Savo's local delicacy, mute pox, a kind of meat soup that includes, in addition to potatoes, various internal organs and coincidences made of blood and flour, "myvys".