Petter Forsström (1877–1967), vuorineuvos known as Kalkki-Petteri, gave the initial impetus to Virkkala's development.

During the recession of the 1990s, Oy Lohja Ab [fi] was merged with Wärtsilä into Metra, which sold the plant to the Swedish Euroc Group.

Extensive renovation work on the city center began in Virkkala in the early 2010s, which stretched for several years, leading to business closures and significantly reducing parking spaces.

The Virkkala Church of the Lohja Parish was designed by architect Mikael Nordenswan and was completed in 1953.

The Kässä Culture House and the protected Pähkinäniemi grove area with a nature trail are also located in Virkkala.