Rovaniemi is a small city (62,000 inhabitants), located in the northernmost province of Finland (Lapland), that grew due to the exploitation of its natural resources in the 1800s. Extensive logging sites and gold fever attracted thousands of people to Lapland.

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This development came to an end during World War II, since the German army received orders to destroy all the buildings in Rovaniemi and an ammunition train was blown. Not only did it cost many casualties in the German troops, but it also set fire to the wooden houses of the town. A Finnish commando unit claimed to have caused the blast and may well have been the primary cause of the town's ruin, considering that 90% of all the buildings in Rovaniemi were destroyed.

The rebuilding process started quickly after that, and was led by Alvar Aalto (1898-1976), who is widely regarded as one of Finland’s national architects. He conceived that the new town must be shaped like a reindeer, the iconic animal of the area hence, central Rovaniemi is wrapped inside the reindeer’s head and roads leading north, west and south make up the antlers. In fact, this city is worldwide known as Santa Claus´s town and it actually hosts Santa´s village, just in the very same location where the Polar Artic Circle goes through its province.

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However, the most symbolic heritage in Rovaniemi is neither architectural, nor cultural or artistic. The real, as well as, breathtaking patrimony of the area is its stunning nature. Located about 6 km south of the Arctic Circle at the confluence of two rivers (Kemijoki and Ounasioki), Rovaniemi is surrounded by water, dense forests and white mountains… that host a vivid wildlife, totally different from we are accustomed to. Moreover, this area is recognized as one of the best spots to live two of the experiences of a lifetime: the Midnight Sun during summer time and the Northern Lights in fall and winter.