Korkeasaari


Korkeasaari is an island in Helsinki. The literal meaning of Korkeasaari is "Tall Island/Islet". It is part of the Mustikkamaa–Korkeasaari district. Korkeasaari Zoo is located on the island and named after it.
The island of Korkeasaari is a rocky island. Two smaller islands are located next to it: Hylkysaari and Palosaari.

History

A sacrificial stone from Bronze Age has been found on the island. It is the first one found in Helsinki area.
Korkeasaari was a recreational use for peorple living in Helsinki. Locals used it for fishing and for herding. After the Crimean War a steam boat started operating to the island and the island became a popular place to spend time. Korkeasaari was rented to Helsingin Anniskelyhtiö in 1883, and it started renovating the island. Roads were built and city gardener L. A. Jernström planned planting areas to the island. Restaurant designed by Theodor Höijer was built in 1884, and it is still located on the island.
In 1972, a bridge was built to connect Korkeasaari to the mainland via Mustikkamaa.
In August of 2016, planning of Kruunusillat bridges started. They will connect Korkeasaari to Hakaniemi and Kruunuvuorenranta.