Pelojankan

Pelojankan is a term that refers to a specific type of traditional Finnish sauna. Unlike a typical smoke sauna or modern electric sauna, a pelojankan is characterized by its unique heating method and the materials used in its construction. The name itself is believed to derive from the Finnish word "pelto," meaning field, and "janka," a dialectal term for a type of oven or furnace.

The defining feature of a pelojankan is the use of heated stones, often granite or soapstone, that are placed in a specially designed oven. This oven is typically built from clay or stone and is constructed in such a way as to allow for efficient heat distribution. The stones are heated for extended periods, and once they reach the desired temperature, water is ladled onto them to create steam, known as "löyly." This process results in a different quality of heat and steam compared to other sauna types, often described as being gentler and more pervasive.

Historically, pelojankan saunas were common in rural Finnish communities. Their construction often utilized local materials, and the heating method was well-suited to environments where fuel might have been scarce. While less common today than electric or smoke saunas, the pelojankan represents a distinct and authentic aspect of Finnish sauna culture, valued for its traditional approach to heat and relaxation.