Punavuori

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Punavuori
Rödbergen
Position of Punavuori within Helsinki
Subdivisions of Helsinki
Subdivision number 05
District Southern
Area 0.42 km²
Population data
 - Population 8,218 (2006)
 - Pop. density 19,567 /km²
Postal codes 00120, 00150
Subdivision regions none
Neighbouring subdivisions Kaartinkaupunki
Kamppi
Eira
Ullanlinna
Munkkisaari

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

After the new location and growth of Helsinki in the 18th century, Punavuori became the area next to the center. During the 1800s the district had a seedy reputation. Most of the brothels and beerhouses were found in Punavuori. The social problems were aggravated by quickly built rent-apartments for the poor.

Viiskulma ("five corners") square in Punavuori
Viiskulma ("five corners") square in Punavuori

After World War II, the district went through a process of gentrification. Today Punavuori offers many trendy small shops and bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Important streets include Uudenmaankatu and Iso Roobertinkatu. In the old Helsinki slang, the district is called "Rööperi" (derived from the district's Swedish name).

Sinebrychoff park in Punavuori
Sinebrychoff park in Punavuori

[edit] Cultural references of Punavuori

The Beatles song Penny Lane has Finnish lyrics which are based on Punavuori theme, and the song is called "Rööperiin" which means "To Punavuori", using the slang term derived from the Swedish name. The song has been recorded by Pepe Willberg (and later by other artists). The lyrics for the chorus part are: "Rööperiin, mä kaipaan niin" (To Punavuori, I miss to be there so much).


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