Lepakko

Lepakko, also known as Lepakkoluola, was a vibrant self-managed social centre and music venue located in Ruoholahti, Helsinki, Finland, operating from 1979 to 1999. Originally a paint company warehouse built in 1940, it transformed from a derelict building into a cultural hub that supported local music, theatre, and arts. Named after a logo that resembled a bat, Lepakko became the first public squat in Finland, hosting various activities including band practice rooms and a dance school. It played a crucial role in the Finnish punk music scene and was home to Radio City, a commercial radio station. Despite its cultural significance, Lepakko was evicted and demolished in 1999, marking the end of an era for alternative culture in Helsinki.