Pohjola Insurance Building

"When walking down the Alek- santerinkatu shopping street, pay attention to the architectural details. The most intriguing facade is at number 44, the former head- quarters of the Pohjola Insurance Company. The building, known as Pohjolan Toimitalo, dates back to the turn of the 20th century and reflects the national romantic style of the time. Its facades, made of rough-hewn soapstone, red granite and serpentine, are decorated with sculptures of vegetation, animals and figures from Finland’s national epic, the Kalevala, first published in 1835. The eye-catching main entrance, designed by Finnish artist and sculptor Hilda Flodin, is adorned with grinning trolls who keep an eye on passersby. Spot the bears (the symbol of the insurance company) above the pilasters."