History of the Area – The Border Guard Command Era
Before the building became known as Hostel Aurora Kuusamo, it played an important role in Finland’s border security. For decades the building served as a command centre for the Finnish Border Guard and as a workplace for the border guards stationed in Kuusamo.
From 1976 to 1985 the building operated as the command post of the Kuusamo Border Jaeger Company. Between 1986 and 1992 it served as the command post of the Kuusamo Border Company. From the early 1990s onwards the facilities functioned as the headquarters of the Kuusamo Border Guard district. Over the years the building also housed the Kuusamo surveillance unit and a border guard station. Border guards worked in these premises until 2010.
The Finnish Border Guard operated in the building before it was converted into a hostel.
1976–1985 – Command post of the Kuusamo Border Jaeger Company
1986–1992 – Command post of the Kuusamo Border Company
1993–2006 – Headquarters of the Kuusamo Border Guard district
2007–2008 – Headquarters of the Kuusamo Border Guard district and Kuusamo surveillance unit
2009–2010 – Headquarters of the Kuusamo Border Guard district and Kuusamo border guard station
The building is therefore a former Border Guard command centre – and its history is still visible today. The clear barracks-style architecture, the layout of the rooms and small details around the building all reflect its past. We have chosen to preserve parts of this story through subtle hints, and attentive guests may notice objects or details that reveal something about the building’s earlier life. For some visitors the atmosphere may even bring back memories of their own military service.
Border Guard activity has not disappeared from the area. The Kainuu Border Guard still operates next door, and from time to time you may see a Border Guard helicopter landing or taking off from the field behind the fence – a reminder that history and the present continue side by side here.
Welcome to discover this part of local history during your visit to Kuusamo.
