Aboa Vetus Ars Nova

Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in the heart of Turku, Finland, Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is an exceptional museum that brings together archaeology and contemporary art under one roof. Housed in the elegant Rettig Palace, this museum invites visitors to embark on a journey through centuries of urban life and artistic expression. The institution offers a unique blend of exploring medieval ruins and engaging with modern artworks, set on the banks of the scenic Aura River.

About the Museum

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova traces its origins to the unexpected discovery of medieval ruins during construction in the mid‑1990s. Originally intended solely as a venue for contemporary art, the project evolved into a dual museum when archaeologists uncovered remains of six medieval houses and parts of a historic street now called Convent Riverfront—the only archaeological museum of its kind in Finland. Official archaeological excavations began in the 1990s and have been ongoing since 2005, allowing both professionals and volunteers to actively participate in unearthing Turku’s medieval past .

The museum is divided into two complementary sections:

Aboa Vetus, Latin for “Old Turku”, is an underground archaeological site where visitors can wander through ancient cellars and medieval streets embedded within the museum’s foundations.
Ars Nova, meaning “New Art”, occupies the upper floors in the historic Rettig Palace. This section features rotating contemporary art exhibitions alongside works from the museum’s permanent collection, spanning from the late nineteenth century to the present day.

The Rettig Palace itself is a splendid example of early twentieth‑century baroque‑classic architecture, originally built for tobacco manufacturer Hans von Rettig in 1928. Its elegant interiors now house bright, spacious galleries that beautifully contrast with the rugged medieval ruins below.

Interesting Facts

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova opened in 1995 as two separate museums and officially merged in 2004 to form the combined archaeological and contemporary art centre.
It is Finland’s only museum dedicated exclusively to archaeology, featuring a living excavation site that continues to reveal new finds.
The archaeological section includes authentic medieval features such as stone‑walled houses and the old Convent Riverfront street.
Ars Nova’s collection highlights Finnish and international art from the 1950s to the present, and is regularly expanded through new acquisitions and donations.
The museum offers interactive programmes—such as bone‑identification activities and children’s workshops—designed to engage families and encourage hands‑on learning .
Visitors can enjoy a café-restaurant set among medieval ruins and a museum shop with souvenirs, books, and art‑inspired gifts.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +35 820 718 1640

Website: avan.fi/

Facebook: facebook.com/aboavetusarsnova

Conclusion

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is more than just a museum—it is a richly layered cultural experience that combines exploration, discovery, and artistic dialogue. Visitors of all ages can marvel at the remains of medieval Turku, walk the very streets once trodden centuries ago, and then ascend to view compelling contemporary artworks that resonate with the past. Whether you are drawn by history, art, or simply the joy of discovery, Aboa Vetus Ars Nova offers an immersive and enlightening journey through time. If you are planning a visit to Turku, this museum is a must‑see destination that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for both the city’s roots and its creative future.