Petäjävesis

Petäjävesi is a municipality located in the Central Finland region of Finland. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Jyväskylä, the regional capital. The municipality has a population of around 3,800 people. The landscape of Petäjävesi is characterized by forests and lakes, typical of the Finnish Lakeland. The main river flowing through the area is the Petäjävesi River.

Historically, Petäjävesi was part of the larger administrative and ecclesiastical parish of Laukaa. It gained its own chapel in the 17th century and became an independent parish in 1863. The municipality's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture and forestry, but in recent decades, there has been a shift towards service industries and small-scale manufacturing.

The most notable landmark in Petäjävesi is the Old Church of Petäjävesi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This exceptionally well-preserved wooden church was built between 1763 and 1765. It is renowned for its unique architecture, which blends Baroque and Gothic elements, and its interior decorations. The church is a significant example of traditional Finnish church building and remains a popular tourist attraction.

Petäjävesi offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and cross-country skiing, thanks to its natural environment. The municipality actively promotes its cultural heritage and natural attractions.