The museum rests atop the medieval ruins of old Turku, which were discovered during foundation work for an extension to the Rettig Palace in the 1990s.
The archaeological site includes remnants of the 'Great Fire of Turku' era, providing insights into pre-modern domestic life.
The Rettig Palace was designed by architect Bertel Strömmer and reflects a neo-classical style common to elite 20th-century residences.
The underground excavations allow visitors to view the street level of the city as it existed in the Middle Ages.
The museum uses climate-controlled glass structures to preserve the fragile stone ruins against moisture and humidity.
The name 'Aboa Vetus' translates from Latin to 'Old Turku'.
Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is a dual-purpose museum situated on the banks of the Aura River in Turku, combining an archaeological site with a contemporary art gallery. The 'Aboa Vetus' section consists of preserved medieval stone foundations and street structures excavated beneath the modern museum floor, representing parts of the historic town. The 'Ars Nova' wing is located in the 1928 Rettig Palace, a building formerly owned by the tobacco-manufacturing Rettig family. Visitors can walk through excavated ruins dating back to the 14th century, which include hearths, wells, and cellar walls. The art gallery exhibits rotating contemporary works from both Finnish and international artists. The site represents a unique integration of urban history and modern creative expression within a single compound.
The contrast between the preserved medieval stone walls and the modern, minimalist white-walled gallery spaces.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes as the ruins area features uneven stone surfaces and varied terrain.
Check the official website for current temporary art exhibitions before visiting, as the Ars Nova wing changes themes frequently.
Plan to explore the archaeological level thoroughly, as the signage provides significant historical context for the city's origins.
Don't rush through the archaeological ruins; the layers of history are easy to miss if walking too quickly.
Typically closed on Mondays.
