The history of the
Mikkeli area reaches to
the beginning of the 11th
century. It was, already then, known as an active
emporium and as a
centre of
eastern Finland. In the 1500’s,
the place was named after
Saint Michael.
The City of Mikkeli was founded in 1838.
The city of Mikkeli is the
capital of the Province of
Eastern Finland and it is situated by
the Lake Saimaa.
Mikkeli is a
lively town with the most
beautiful Lake scenery. It takes only two
hours to drive by car from
the market place in Mikkeli to
Helsinki city
centre. Mikkeli is situated on
the crossroads of five
highways. Good
connections to
eastern,
southern and
central Finland give great opportunities to local business and travelling. Certainly, Mikkeli is a combination of interesting history and traditions, active business, high education and research,
culture,
nature and internationality.
Mikkeli has a significant role in Finland’s history since during the
war years 1939-40 and 1941-44 the Finnish Defence Forces had their
headquarters in Mikkeli and it is still possible to feel the importance and presence of
Marshal C.G.E. Mannerheim. There are still some interesting reminders of that
time, which are introduced for example in museums and exhibitions.
Diverse business in
Mikkeli is based on
forest and
timber, information technology, food
products, metal and tourism. High education strengthens the know-how in Mikkeli
area and R&D carried by businesses is resulting in competitive,
innovative products for world
markets. Also
nature is a tangible presence in Mikkeli and major feature of
the business life in the town. In the Mikkeli area operates several substantial and globally noticed enterprises with high expertise in their business
branch. Mikkeli areas
target is to improve the companies’ activities and continuing development, and to create
one of the
best places to
live in Finland.