Lohja - Finland

**Lohja: A Charming Lake City with a Rich History** Located in the southern interior of Finland, Lohja is a picturesque town that offers an ideal blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. With a population of approximately 47,500 people, it's the 20th most populous municipality in Finland, yet still maintains a tranquil atmosphere. **Nature and Landscape** Lohja is situated in the western part of the Uusimaa region, covering an area of 1,109 square kilometers, with about 8.3% consisting of water. The population density is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life. The town's landscape is characterized by stunning manors and gardens, while the Lohja ridge divides its area and forms a watershed for the largest lake system in Uusimaa, Lake Lohja. **Cultural Significance** Lohja has been an important hub for the population and economy of western Uusimaa since the 14th century. The town's rich history is reflected in its architectural highlights, including the medieval Church of St. Lawrence and a mix of buildings from different eras in downtown Lohja. The modern Lohja library, which opened in 2005, adds a touch of contemporary flair to the town. **Language and Demographics** As a bilingual municipality, Finnish and Swedish are both official languages in Lohja. The population consists of approximately 94% Finnish speakers, 4% Swedish speakers, and 2% speakers of other languages. This diversity is reflected in the city's slogan: "Järvikaupunki – Insjöstaden," which translates to "Lake City." **Lifestyle and Amenities** While Lohja may not be directly part of the Helsinki metropolitan area, it benefits from a good road network, making it easily accessible from Helsinki within an hour. The town has a decent selection of amenities, with a score of B- for overall amenities. However, some areas for improvement include commute times (C+) and noise levels (B-). **Summer Cottages and Tourism** Lohja is renowned for its summer cottages, boasting the fourth-highest number in Finland, with 8,468 cottages as of June 2018. This makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a relaxing getaway. **Economy and Industry** The local economy has long-established traditions in horticulture, particularly market gardening. The town's history is also closely tied to the Finnish mining and construction material industries, with many pioneers from Lohja contributing to these sectors. Overall, Lohja offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet convenient lifestyle.

Lohja

Lohja
Country: Finland
Population: 45645
Area: 1109.73 square kilometre
Web: https://www.lohja.fi/
City manager: Pasi Perämäki