Old Castle of Lieto

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Old Castle of Lieto (Liedon Vanhalinna in Finnish) is a fortified hill in Lieto, Finland. According to excavations, it has been in usage in the Late Bronze Age (1000-500 BCE), in Middle Iron Age (500-700 CE, contested) and in the Middle Ages up to the end of the 14th century. It probably served as the first Swedish fortress in Finland from the mid-13th century onwards after the Second Swedish Crusade. Constructions on the hilltop were mostly of wood. In the latest phase, some bricks were used as well.

The castle was located between two ancient transport routes: Aura river and "Oxen Way of Tavastia" (Hämeen Härkätie) leading to central Tavastia. Its importance decreased when Turku castle became ready in beginning of the 14th century.

The steep sides of the hill provided for most of the fortifications. Other construction at the top of the hill were made of wood.

[edit] Today: Vanhalinna Museum

There is a museum, founded in accordance with a donation charter given by Mauno and Ester Wanhalinna, who had decorated the place as a manor home. Archaeological finds for display on eras of Varsinais-Suomi starting from Stone Ages. Folk cultural department shows agrarian tools and life.