Helsinki has sold one of two historic 19th century log buildings from the former Maria Hospital area to a private individual. Project manager Markku Hakonen confirmed the sale of the disinfection guest house building.
The purchase price reached approximately one thousand euros. However, moving and reconstructing the historic structure will involve much higher costs, according to city officials.
Another building from the same site, the infectious disease pavilion, remains available for purchase. Both structures were dismantled earlier this year and have been stored in a city warehouse for nearly two years.
The buyer prefers to remain anonymous, so the city is cautious about sharing details. Officials confirmed the building won't be relocated to East Pakila, where it was originally planned to be rebuilt.
City architect Tommi Suvanto explained that the buildings are stored in dry, ventilated conditions. The city has experience with moving and preserving historic structures.
Originally, both buildings were scheduled for reconstruction in East Pakila by 2025. However, extensive preparatory work including rock excavation would have driven costs too high.
The sale terms were relaxed after initial auctions failed to find buyers. Purchasers now have more flexibility in choosing reconstruction sites while bearing all relocation costs.
The city museum advises on preserving architectural features during reconstruction. Building authorities will oversee the actual construction process.
City officials continue seeking buyers for the remaining infectious disease pavilion. Several parties have shown interest, but no final agreement has been reached.
These historic buildings were dismantled to make way for a startup campus that never materialized. The site is now planned for gaming company Supercell's new headquarters.
A council initiative proposes moving and reconstructing the buildings at city expense. While city administration views this unfavorably, politicians will make the final decision.
The buildings' fate highlights Helsinki's ongoing challenge balancing historic preservation with urban development. Despite cultural value assessments, relocation remains the preferred compromise.