The Present Role and Future Perspectives of Urban Archaeology in Finland

Since the late 19th century, practitioners of archaeology have uncovered a wealth of evidence from past centuries, significantly enhancing our knowledge and understanding of various cities and towns in Finland. While urban archaeology is often associated with excavations related to construction and development projects in urban settings, the field encompasses a much broader array of topics, methodologies and research practices related to urban life and environments, both past and present. Adopting this broader perspective, the aim of urban archaeology is to document and elucidate the multilayered history and multifaceted structure of cities, as well as elements of urbanism and urban life, in a comprehensive and holistic manner. This includes the historical development of towns and cities up to the present day, as well as analyses of urban features and fabrics from different periods. Consequently, urban archaeology is not confined to the study of material remains and evidence found underground, but also includes extant structures aboveground, such as standing buildings, visible constructions, spatial layouts and urban landscapes, as well as the functions and populations of cities. In this paper, I discuss the definitions and preconceptions of urban archaeology and its role, with a particular focus on Finland. In addition to presenting ideas for a more holistic approach to urban archaeology, I reflect on the limitations of prevailing definitions and the implications of restricting urban archaeological heritage to specific historical periods. When considering the role, importance and relevance of urban archaeology in the future, it is crucial to ask who determines the scope of urban archaeology, and on what basis and why. What actions can and should be taken to alter current perceptions and conditions, if change is deemed necessary and desirable, in order to affirm the role of urban archaeology in future society, including academic research and urban development?