The largest hillfort in Finland, on a ridge above Lake Vanajavesi at Sääksmäki (Valkeakoski).
Some 80 hollows taken for house sites and 13 hearths are known, though only about one per cent of the fort has been excavated; it was in use at least in the 13th century, the area was settled from the 7th century, and parts of the fort may be older (en.wikipedia Rapola Castle). Its building is often linked to the Tavastians' wars with Novgorod and the Swedes; the old idea that it was the main fort of all the Tavastians has been challenged. Whether it was manned in the winter of 1199-1200 is not pinned, but it belongs to the Tavastian hillfort system of the period.
Who holds it
- Name
- the Tavastians of Sääksmäki (no leader named)
- Title
- district hillfort
- Confidence
- low
en.wikipedia Rapola Castle
Lord in 1200
None: a district stronghold. A papal letter of 1340 names a 'Cuningas de Rapalum', a local headman, among farmers refusing church dues.
How things stand that morning
Tavastian district stronghold; no lord.
Communities
Tavastian farmers of Sääksmäki.
Fairs and markets
None recorded.
Militia
None recorded.
Walls and castle
Long stone and earth ramparts on the ridge; no stone castle.
Trade and crafts
Village round the fort; farming and lake fishing.
What the year holds
What happened next, if nothing in play changes it. Each event carries what it depends on and what would stop it.
- 1200 (no dated event)Nothing recorded.
Where the sources disagree
Evidence: Excavated; dating to the 13th century is secure, earlier use likely but not pinned.
Primary sources for Finland
Chronicles, registers, sagas and inscriptions written in or near 1200 that cover this entry. Each has its own page with editions, translations and where to read it.
- The Swedish diplomatarium and its main register, SDHK (documents of 817 to 1540). The register of every known Swedish medieval letter, with full texts for the early centuries. Read online
Sources and studies
Last revised 4 November 2026. Published 4 November 2026. Suggest a correction on the OMNIA Discord.