Kainuu region – Literary tourism paradise

Literary tourism can be recognized as a subtype of cultural heritage tourism. Both types have varying degrees of overlap with each other. Thus, a cultural heritage destination can also be a literary destination at the same time. This can help to highlight authenticity and uniqueness of the destination. Kainuu region is a great example of a combination of literary and cultural heritage tourism. Kainuu has deep roots in history and vivid literary heritage that has changed not only the culture of the region but the entire country of Finland. Literature created in the region provided Finnish culture with rich art pieces such as Kalevala – the Finnish epic by Elias Lönnrot and Helkavirsiä-poetry collection and other works by Eino Leino.

Literary heritage of the region contributes to promotion of cultural heritage tourism in Kainuu region through storytelling. Thus, this combination of tourism types underlines the region among other tourism destinations. Also, Spot-lit project developed various literary products and services which create coherence literary picture of Kainuu region.

Literary and cultural heritage tourism in Kainuu region

To be honest, the Kainuu region is not the first place that would come to my mind when thinking about domestic tourism. I was really impressed about the region and its various tourism activities, especially literary ones. Anyhow, I am still wondering why I haven’t heard about it before! Maybe it is due to the fact that other regions such as Northern Ostrobothnia with destinations like Oulu and Kuusamo as well as Lapland are taking the whole attention of visitors. Also, awareness of international visitors about Finnish literature and writers might be quite weak. Everyone has heard about Santa Claus, but only few know about Kalevala characters. I believe that it is a weakness of the region but also a potential.

Anyhow, soon we will plunge into the literary paradise of this unique region and familiarize ourselves with its operational side. Now my expectations are high and yet I don’t know what to really expect from our trip to Kainuu region. Do you feel the same? If so, let me know in the comments below and don’t forget to check my other posts!

See you soon!:)