Reunakivissä

Reunakivissä, also known as "edge stones" or "border stones," are a type of boundary marker commonly used in Finland and other Nordic countries. These stones are typically placed along property boundaries to clearly define the limits of land ownership. They are usually made of granite or other durable materials and are often inscribed with the owner's name, the year of installation, and sometimes additional information such as the property number.

The practice of using reunakivissä dates back to the medieval period, when land ownership was often marked by physical boundaries rather than legal documents. Over time, this tradition has been maintained and updated to reflect changes in property ownership and boundaries.

Reunakivissä serve multiple purposes. They provide a visual and physical marker of property lines, helping to prevent disputes and misunderstandings about land ownership. They also serve as a historical record, documenting the evolution of land use and ownership in a particular area. Additionally, they can be a source of local pride and identity, reflecting the community's history and values.

In modern times, the use of reunakivissä has been supplemented by other methods of boundary marking, such as fences, signs, and GPS coordinates. However, they remain an important and enduring tradition in many rural and suburban areas of Finland. The placement of a new reunakivi can be a significant event, often involving community gatherings and celebrations.