kivilattialleen

Kivilattialle is a term that is primarily associated with the Finish culture, although the concept may have similar variations in other countries.

The term can be translated to English as "stone gate" or "stone arch". In Finnish architecture, particularly during the Middle Ages, kilivialle referred to a type of gate or entrance that was often composed of several large stones or a single stone arch. These gates were commonly found in villages and towns surrounded by fortifications, and they served as a key entry point where taxes were collected and village rules were enforced.

The structure of a kilivialle often featured large stones, sometimes weighing several tonnes, that were carved to create a specific design or shape. The stones were then assembled into an arch or a gate, which was often covered with smaller stones or other materials such as wood. The goal of a kilivialle was to protect the interior of the village or town from potential invaders and to maintain a sense of community by controlling entry and exit points.

While kilivialle played an important role in Finnish architecture during the medieval period, their construction eventually gave way to more modern designs and materials. Many kilivialle can still be found throughout Finland, and they serve as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Finnish builders during this time. Today, kilivialle are considered a unique architectural feature of Finnish history and culture, and efforts are made to preserve and restore these structures for future generations to appreciate.