They Shall Not Pass - 31 July 2016

It did not take long to notice that there are many of these turtle figures around Helsinki. It took a little longer to find out why. (The word 'turtle' is used in the explanation but, I presume, this is one part of the world where 'turtle' and 'tortoise' are not distinguished).

The turtles were conceived by someone in STARA (Helsinki's public works/highways department) as movable traffic barriers. They could be placed where needed (and moved around) but their amusing and gentle nature would be somewhat non-confrontational. They come in varying finishes and some are painted. A hold in the shell allows the insertion of a pole to carry a marker or as part of a fence.

This example is in Siltavuorenpenger just south of Long Bridge.

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