City planning involves
and concerns many parties from ordinary citizens to decision makers,
construction companies, stakeholders and landowners. The development and
construction of the city change the living environment and affect the
functions, identity, attractiveness and vitality of the town in many different
ways. The ideas and actions are, however, often restricted or directed by
financial resources and economic interests of different stakeholders,
developers and landowners.

In this paper, I am
discussing the impact and role of money in city planning, urban archaeology and
construction of Turku (Finland). Turku is the oldest town of Finland proud of
its medieval roots and long history with notable urban archaeological and
historical heritage. Therefore, the construction activities are often preceded
by archaeological excavations, which need to be considered in urban planning
and development projects.

The paper presents a couple
of examples from the past and present, which demonstrate the relevance of
finance and role of moneymen in urban development and in the preservation and
research of archaeological and historical heritage of the town.