The 4th EU‑Potarch Training School in Möhkö has come to an end, concluding several inspiring days dedicated to Finland’s PoTaRCh heritage — from traditional charcoal burning and tar production to the history of local ironmaking. It was a unique opportunity to connect field experience with historical knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of how these industries shaped Karelian communities and landscapes.
One of the highlights was visiting a site with the remains of a traditional charcoal-burning kiln, offering a tangible link to past production techniques. We also had the pleasure of listening to engaging stories from local historians at the Möhkö Ironworks Museum and from Ville Hakamäki, archaeologist at the Provincial Museum of North Karelia.
The Training School began with an immersion into Karelian culture at Luontopirtti Mesikkä, setting the stage for the days of fieldwork and exploration that followed.
Our sincere thanks go to Maare Paloheimo, Katja Tikka, Timo Särkkä, and Heidi Koponen for their exceptional organization, thoughtful planning, and dedication. Their work made the 4th Training School in Möhkö a valuable and memorable experience for all participants.
