Kuopio was founded in 1653 by Governor Peter Brahe, but the official date is recognized as November 17, 1775, when King Gustav III of Sweden ordered the establishment of the city of Kuopio. The municipality of Karttula joined the city of Kuopio in 2011, like did Vehmersalmi in 2005, Riistavesi in 1973 and Kuopion maalaiskunta in 1969
