Eira

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Eira
Eira
Position of Eira within Helsinki
Subdivisions of Helsinki
Subdivision number 06
District Southern
Area 0.17 km²
Population data
 - Population 1,046 (2004)
 - Pop. density 6,153 /km²
Postal codes 00150
Subdivision regions none
Neighbouring subdivisions Länsisatama
Punavuori
Ullanlinna

Eira (Swedish: Eira) is a district in Helsinki, the capital of Finland.

The district dates back to the early 20th century and received its name after Eira Hospital in the neighboring district of Ullanlinna, which in turn took its name from Eira Hospital in Stockholm, which was named after Eir, the old Scandinavian goddess of healing.

A villa and the church of Mikael Agricola in Eira
A villa and the church of Mikael Agricola in Eira

Eira is located south from the city centre. The district has some of the most expensive and sought-after old apartments, built in jugend style. Many foreign embassies and high-class restaurants are situated in Eira and the neighbouring district of Kaivopuisto.

Eira also appears in the movie Calamari Union directed by Aki Kaurismäki. In the movie the area of Eira symbolizes wealth and well-being, which the characters are trying to achieve by moving from Kallio to Eira.

Eira park
Eira park
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Coordinates: 60°09′23″N, 24°56′18″E