The duration of the repairs on the fountain square will depend on potential archaeological excavations, and the preliminary estimate is that the work on the square may continue until August 2024. The schedule will be specified in the autumn of 2023.
Repairs on the sculpture
The woman figure and the sea lion statues on the edge of the fountain have been damaged over the years, e.g. during various national celebrations. The salty and windy marine climate has also worn the surface of the sculptures.
The renovation will involve straightening the inclination of the sculpture and reinforcing the structure of the pedestal of the woman figure. The cracks and holes in the bronze will be repaired and patinated. The bronze parts will also undergo a comprehensive surface conservation process.
Renovations on the square
The renovation project will involve restoring the water basin and foundation of the statue. The depressions on the surface of the square will be fixed, and the traditional pavement will be restored at the end of the project. The technology of the fountain will also be renovated. The excavation work will be carried out under the supervision of an archaeologist due to the possibility of ancient relics being discovered.
A permanent lifting site will be built on the square for lifting devices used for capping ceremonies and maintenance work.
About Havis Amanda
Havis Amanda has served as a landmark on the Market Square and a symbol of maritime Helsinki for 115 years.
The fountain consists of a basin lined with red rapakivi granite, four bronze sea lions and a woman figure rising from the water on a bronze pedestal in the middle of the basin.