Siilinjärvi

Siilinjärvi is a municipality located in the Savo region of Eastern Finland. It is situated approximately 20 kilometers north of the city of Kuopio. The municipality covers an area of 719.49 square kilometers, of which 170.68 square kilometers are water. As of the end of 2023, Siilinjärvi had a population of around 20,000 people.

The municipality is known for its role as a significant industrial and service center in its local area. A key feature of Siilinjärvi is the Siilinjärvi carbonatite complex, one of the largest of its kind in Europe. This geological formation is the basis for the Yara Suomi Oy fertilizer plant, a major employer and producer in the region. The plant mines apatite and nepheline for fertilizer production.

Siilinjärvi's natural landscape is characterized by numerous lakes and forests, typical of the Finnish Lakeland. The largest lake is Kallavesi, which is part of a larger lake system. The municipality offers recreational opportunities related to these natural features, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The town center of Siilinjärvi is well-developed, offering a range of services and amenities to its residents. Transportation links are good, with regular bus services to Kuopio and proximity to Kuopio Airport. The railway line also passes through Siilinjärvi, connecting it to other parts of Finland. The community is home to various educational institutions, including schools and vocational training centers.