Salo - Finland
Salo: A Charming Finnish Town with a Rich History and Natural Beauty
Located in the southwestern interior of Finland, Salo is a charming town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. With a population of approximately 54,000 people, Salo is a significant municipality in Finland, ranking as the 53rd most populous municipality and the 24th most populous urban area in the country.
Salo's picturesque landscape covers an area of 2,063 square kilometers, with about 181 square kilometers consisting of water. The town's population density is approximately 26 people per square kilometer, providing a comfortable balance between urban convenience and natural surroundings. As a unilingually Finnish municipality, Salo proudly preserves its cultural heritage and linguistic traditions.
The name "Salo" originates from the Finnish words for woodland or backwoods, which aptly describes the town's scenic location amidst rolling hills and forests. According to local legend, the name originally referred to an island located south of the current town over a thousand years ago, now transformed into a hill due to post-glacial rebound.
Strategically situated between Helsinki (about 115 kilometers away) and Turku (around 65 kilometers away), Salo benefits from its proximity to these larger cities, which has contributed to the growth of its business sector. The area is also known for its fertile soil, making farming a significant contributor to the local economy. Salo shares borders with several neighboring municipalities, including Koski Tl, Lohja, Kimitoön, Marttila, Paimio, Raseborg, Sauvo, and Somero.
Salo has a rich history of innovation, having once been home to Nokia's significant consumer electronics and mobile phone industry. Although the manufacturing plant closed in 2015, resulting in high unemployment rates, the town continues to evolve and adapt to new economic opportunities.
As the birthplace of former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, Salo takes pride in its cultural significance and historical heritage. The town's twinning with Saint Anthony Village in Minnesota also underscores its commitment to international cooperation and exchange.
Despite facing some challenges, such as high unemployment rates following the closure of Nokia's plant, Salo remains a charming and resilient Finnish town that offers an attractive balance between natural beauty, modern amenities, and cultural richness. With a total score of B (B- for amenities, commute, health, culture, childcare & education, and NIMBY; B+ for noise), Salo presents an appealing choice for those seeking a comfortable and peaceful lifestyle amidst Finland's picturesque landscape.
Salo town centre by night
Salo
Country: Finland
Population: 51056
Metropolitan Population: 64,650
Area: 2168.0 square kilometre
Web: https://salo.fi/
City manager: Tero Nissinen