Sibelius Monument, Helsinki, Finland

Sibelius Monument, Helsinki, Finland

When artist Eila Hiltunen constructed the Sibelius Monument in 1967 with 600 steel tubes welded together, not everyone was an immediate fan. Some criticised the 24-tonne piece as too abstract, especially for honouring the sculpture’s namesake, Jean Sibelius, who is regarded as the country’s greatest composer. To appease the masses, Eila added a bust of Sibelius which sits beside the sculpture. Today the Sibelius Monument is a beloved attraction in Helsinki and Sibelius’ music remains a national treasure. The composer’s legacy is honoured each year on December 8, his birthday, as the Day of Finnish Music.