Kalkkisauna

Kalkkisauna, also known as a wooden heat storage sauna, is a traditional type of sauna originating from Finland and other parts of Northern Europe. The name "kalkkisauna" is derived from the Finnish words "kalkki," meaning limestone, and "sauna," referring to the heating and sweating process.

Kalkkisaunas were built in the 19th century and were initially heated with wood fires. The sauna was constructed from logs that were stacked in a way to allow efficient heat storage. The heat from the fire was stored in the walls of the sauna, which were made of logs or pine wood, and released slowly as the users cooled down after their sessions.

The unique design of chalk saunas utilizes the thermal mass of the wooden structure to distribute heat evenly throughout the space, providing a consistent temperature. This method of heating allows the sauna to maintain its temperature even when the wood has stopped burning, resulting in a more efficient use of fuel. The sauna's traditional construction also provided natural insulation, allowing the heat to be retained inside the structure.

Kalkkisaunas were not only used for physical relaxation but also served as social gathering spaces. Family members and friends would gather in the sauna to socialize and share stories. The use of kalkkisaunas gradually declined in the 20th century as newer, more modern saunas became available. However, this traditional type of sauna remains a nostalgic reminder of Finland's sauna culture and its symbolic significance in the country's social and cultural heritage.