Jomala brings together different historical perspectives: St. Olaf’s Church is one of the oldest surviving stone churches in Åland and Finland, Jettböle is a Stone Age settlement site, and the Jomalaleden offers a route with connections to the landscape and history. When looking for a holiday apartment in Jomala, you can first consider whether you would like to focus mainly on architectural history, archaeology or hiking. These interests differ considerably and give your travel planning a clear direction.
St. Olaf’s Church and its dating
St. Olaf’s Church is considered one of the oldest surviving stone churches in Åland and all of Finland. A dendrochronological analysis of the tower and an AMS-14C analysis of the mortar date the church consistently to the 1280s. The combined dating provides a specific timeframe for its architectural history. The church is used mainly for services and other church ceremonies, as well as concerts.
Jettböle: a different time horizon
Jettböle adds a much earlier perspective to the church’s architectural history. The Stone Age settlement site is one of Finland’s most significant sites for Scandinavian Pitted Ware culture. For those interested in cultural history, Jomala offers two clearly distinct subjects: the church, dated to the 1280s, and an important Stone Age site. The area’s archaeological history is therefore not limited to a single building.
The Jomalaleden: stages, nature and history
The Jomalaleden can be divided into shorter or longer stages and walked in different directions. This gives you the flexibility to plan how much hiking to do based on your timeframe, rather than having to follow a single fixed stage. The trail passes through the Ramsholmen Nature Reserve. Historical attractions along the Jomalaleden also include Kungsö Coastal Battery Hill, with a 3–6 km hiking trail and the remains of a Russian military battery built between 1916 and 1918. Ramsholmen represents nature conservation, while Kungsö highlights the military history along the route.
More to explore in Åland’s countryside
The wider destination of Åland’s countryside offers further themes in cultural history. Kastelholm Castle was built as a defensive fortress in the late 14th century. The Kastelholm area is also home to Jan Karlsgården, an open-air museum. The Bomarsund Visitor Centre presents the area’s history through sound and images. The fortress, open-air museum and historical interpretation each offer a distinct focus.
The landscape and local produce are also part of what Åland’s countryside has to offer. In Geta, there is a lookout tower on Getabergen, with far-reaching views in clear weather. The region is home to several authentic small-scale producers. Visitors can stroll among extensive apple orchards to buy the famous apple juice, or visit a caramel workshop and sample handmade sweets. The offerings of individual producers may change.
Discover more destinations: Lemland, Saltvik, Hammarland, Finström, Geta, Eckerö, Lumparland
Back to the main travel overview: Åland’s countryside.
