Punavuori

Punavuori
Rödbergen
Position of Punavuori within Helsinki
Position of Punavuori within Helsinki
Country Finland
RegionUusimaa
Sub-regionGreater Helsinki
MunicipalityHelsinki
DistrictSouthern
Subdivision regionsnone
Area
0.42 km2 (0.16 sq mi)
Population
 (2010)
8,440
Postal codes
00120, 00150
Subdivision number05
Neighbouring subdivisionsKaartinkaupunki
Kamppi
Eira
Ullanlinna
Munkkisaari

Punavuori (Finnish: [ˈpunɑˌʋuo̯ri]; Swedish: Rödbergen) is a neighbourhood in the center of Helsinki, the capital of Finland. The name Punavuori (lit.'red mountain') refers to red cliffs located between Sepänkatu and Punavuorenkatu. They were still visible in the 19th century, nowadays they are covered with buildings and pavement. Punavuori was traditionally a working-class neighbourhood, today it is known as a bohemian district popular among artists, students and hipsters. It is one of the most densely populated areas in Finland.

After the new location and growth of Helsinki in the 18th century, Punavuori became the area next to the center. During the 19th century the district had a seedy reputation. Most of the brothels and beerhouses were found in Punavuori. The social problems were aggravated by quickly built rent-apartments for the poor.

Viiskulma ("five corners") intersection in Punavuori

After World War II, the district went through a process of gentrification. Today Punavuori offers many trendy small shops and bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Important streets include Uudenmaankatu and Iso Roobertinkatu. In the old Helsinki slang, the district is called "Rööperi" (derived from the district's Swedish name).

Sinebrychoff park in Punavuori
The headquarters of the Finnish Security Intelligence Service or SUPO in Punavuori