Free-flowing River Hiitolanjoki exhibition until 31.8.2025

Maretarium’s summer exhibition presents the story of the liberation of the Hiitolanjoki rapids through unique photographs, texts and maps. The theme of Maretarium for 2025 is the restoration of waterways.

The exhibition features nearly 30 stunning pictures by six photographers that depict change, events and the current state in a restored flowing water environment. The municipality of Rautjärvi has been a pioneer in the release of rapids from hydropower production, and the Hiitolanjoki River is the first of its kind in Finland on this scale. The purpose of the exhibition is to present the comprehensive, positive effects of restoration at a nationally and internationally significant site. One of the concrete goals of the project is to establish the place of wild landlocked salmon in Finland’s species. This rare fish species is now also available at the Maretarium.

The exhibition’s partner, the Wilderness Heritage Foundation of Finland, is planning a museum in Imatra that deals with man’s relationship with nature. The free-flowing River Hiitolanjoki exhibition also opens up the exhibition activities of the Wilderness Heritage Foundation of Finland and supports the goals of the future museum as a presenter of biodiversity and a promoter of a relationship with nature that supports well-being.

The organisers of the exhibition are delighted with the diverse co-operation between different actors on an important and topical topic. It is hoped that the exhibition will increase interest in fish tourism in Kymenlaakso and South Karelia and encourage visitors to participate in restoration efforts and new development projects.

The exhibition has been designed and written by Mikko Europaeus, a long-time specialist on the Hiitolanjoki River and a river warrior. Piia Holappa, Communications Coordinator of the Municipality of Rautjärvi, is responsible for the graphic design. The exhibition is organised by Maretarium, the Wilderness Heritage Foundation of Finland, Municipality of Rautjärvi and Hiitolanjoki Association. The exhibition is open all summer 3.6.-31.8.2025 and is included in the price of the Martarium ticket, welcome!