Päijälä Hillfort (Linnavuori)

The hillfort of Päijälä (Linnavuori) is one of the most impressive prehistoric sites and viewpoints in Finland. The Päijälä hillfort rises on the shore of Lake Saaresjärvi, approximately eight kilometers from the Kuhmoinen village center. It is one of the refuge and safety sites used by local inhabitants during the tribal war era, from the 9th to the 13th century, and similar sites have been found scattered throughout the Häme region.

It is considered certain that the Päijälä hillfort was in use from at least the 11th century until the latter half of the 13th century. The hill rises about 25 meters above the surrounding terrain and 45 meters above the surface of Lake Saaresjärvi. Viewed from below, its cliff face is a striking sight. The elevation difference to Lake Päijänne is approximately 100 meters.

Päijälä’s hillfort is one of around 70 national “Adopt a Monument” sites overseen by the Pirkanmaa Provincial Museum. Local volunteer organizations maintain and preserve these sites. In this case, the Kuhmoinen Homestead Association is the official adopter of the hillfort.