Mikkeli's past is strongly connected to war. A brigade level garrison has been around since 17th century, and also other military units have long belonged to the city. Locally best remembered events include WWII, when the army's headquarters were here, and a war in 18th century which was partially waged here. The biggest bomb of all times hit Mikkeli early in 2005, when decommissioning of the illustrious garrison was confirmed. After 2007, SavPr will only exist in history books.

This area a few kilometers South of the central city has served infantry since the year 1892. Listing all exact names and functions of the units would be off-scope, but in later days these houses have accommodated NCO trainees and their trainers. The garrison was distributed to several locations in the city and this was one of the smaller units out in the forest. The new NCO school, which replaced these houses in 1957 was the first commissioned building at the now-to-be-decommissioned Karkialampi garrison area.

Unfortunately, after army left the buildings, a nearby hospital found the barracks useful and renovated the interiors completely to serve different kind of accommodation needs. Perhaps this part of the history has given the estates an unofficial calling name "war hospital", which actually combines functions and is true in that sense. Some years ago the hospital dwellers have also left the buildings, which means they are now really abandoned. Because of this later use, there are very little or no visible traces of military era, except the buildings themselves, which form a totally unused small village.

Despite hospital's negative effect on the army-feel of the buildings, the place is well worth checking. Trip here on a chilling late autumn afternoon is surely an interesting experience. Recommended stuff to take there would be hot coffee, warm clothes and suitable music (like Joy Division). Big up to local head Methados for informing us about this place.