Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova

Two museums in one location: Aboa Vetus houses the unique ruins of a town quarter and Ars Nova is one of Turku’s three art museums. We offer fascinating exhibitions, events, workshops and courses. The museum, which is maintained by a private foundation, is located on the east bank of the River Aura, right in the centre of Turku.

Aboa Vetus
Medieval Turku was the second largest town in the Swedish realm, when Finland belonged to Sweden. Aboa Vetus tells of the captivating and long history of Finland’s oldest town, amidst genuine medieval ruins. Aboa Vetus is a treasure of the Middle Ages and a unique museum, where visitors are transported back in time.

Ars Nova
Ars Nova began as a home for the art collection of Matti Koivurinta, and now functions actively as a museum of contemporary art. In the museum, visitors encounter the gems of the collection and changing exhibitions of contemporary art in exhibition halls built in a private palace. Ars Nova hosts the European Biennial Exhibition of Contemporary Art every alternate odd-numbered year.