Hanko's 48-metre water tower on Vårdberget hill, built in 1943. Take the lift to the viewing deck for views over the Hanko peninsula and the Baltic Sea.
The Water Tower (Vattentornet in Swedish, Vesitorni in Finnish) is Hanko's best-known landmark. It stands on Vårdberget hill in the centre of town, next to Hanko Church. The tower is 48 metres tall, and its top is 65 metres above sea level. A lift takes you all the way up to the viewing deck, with views in every direction over the Hanko peninsula and the Baltic Sea.
The tower was designed by architect Bertel Liljequist and completed in 1943. It replaced an older water tower from 1910, which was blown up when Soviet troops left Hanko in December 1941.
Visiting the tower
The Water Tower is open to visitors in the summer season and on some other dates, with varying hours. Check the current times at Visit Hanko before you go. The entrance fee is paid at the top. Outside opening hours, you can book a guided visit through the tourist office.
The tower is not wheelchair accessible, and prams and strollers need to be left outside.