Plagen 100 – swimming and sun

In the 1920s, people wished to spend their time of leisure tanning, swimming and playing different types of outdoor sports. As a known bath resort, Loviisa desperately needed its own beach in order to secure future summer guests to the city. During the winter of 1926, ten thousand loads of sand was brought to the muddy shores of Loviisa Bay, and later in June Plagen beach was opened. At this brand-new beach, people could enjoy the sun as well as the refreshing sea water in the contemporary style of the 1920s.

The beach has experienced different types of phases during its 100-year history. Initially, Plagen was intended for bathguests, but later down the line it became a meeting place for all of Loviisa. Many collective memories are also tied to the beach, as many current and former children of Loviisa have learned to swim at Plagen’s swimming schools. The Loviisa region plays a notable role in the history of Finnish swimming schools, as the swimming schools in the area were among the first in the country.

Come and explore the history of swimming, swimming ability and beach life from Loviisa’s point of view in our exhibition Plagen 100 – swimming and sun!