kiviseinä

Kiviseinä is a Finnish term that translates to "stone wall." It refers to a wall constructed from natural stone, often without mortar, or with a minimal amount of binding material. These walls are a traditional building method found in many parts of Finland, particularly in rural areas and historical landscapes.

The construction of kiviseinä typically involves carefully selecting and arranging stones of various shapes and sizes to create a stable and durable structure. The stones are often locally sourced, reflecting the geology of the region. The interlocking nature of the stones, combined with their weight, provides the wall with significant strength and resilience. Historically, kiviseinä were used for a variety of purposes, including boundary walls, retaining walls, and as the structural element in farm buildings and traditional houses.

Modern applications of kiviseinä can be seen in landscaping, garden features, and architectural elements where a natural and rustic aesthetic is desired. While traditional dry-stone walling is less common in new construction due to labor intensity and modern building regulations, its principles are still admired and sometimes incorporated into contemporary designs. The longevity and aesthetic appeal of stone walls have made them a lasting feature in the Finnish built environment.