Introduction
Located in the Gulf of Finland, the Unesco World Heritage listed Fortress of Suomenlinna is a maritime fortress built in the 18th century by the Swedish Crown. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland, visited by over 800,000 people every year. The fortress has been standing since 1748 and is a great example of military architecture from that era. It is also home to many historic sites, museums, and monuments, making it an interesting and educational destination.
History of the Fortress of Suomenlinna
The Fortress of Suomenlinna was first constructed in 1748, by the Swedish Crown, as a defensive fortress. Its purpose was to protect the strategically important port of Helsinki from any potential naval attack. As the years passed, the Swedish Crown increased its military presence in the fortress, and began to use it as a base for its navy. Eventually, it became a heavily fortified base, with a large garrison of soldiers and a number of fortifications.
In 1808, the fortress was surrendered to the Russian Empire, and it remained under their control until 1917, when the fortress was returned to Finland. Following the end of the Finnish Civil War in 1918, the fortress was used as a prison, and later as an army base. In 1973, it was declared a National Park, and in 1991, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to See and Do at the Fortress of Suomenlinna
Today, the Fortress of Suomenlinna is a popular tourist destination, and there is plenty to do and see for visitors.
Museums
The fortress is home to several museums, including the Suomenlinna Museum, the Submarine Vesikko Museum, and the Puppet Museum. Each museum offers visitors a unique look into the history of the fortress and the people who lived and worked there.
Fortifications
The fortress was heavily fortified in its heyday, and visitors can still explore the surviving fortifications. These include the King’s Gate, the Great Coastal Battery, and the Russian Coastal Battery.
Monuments
The fortress is home to a number of monuments, including a memorial to the victims of the Russian Revolution and a memorial to the victims of World War II.
Other Attractions
The fortress is also home to a number of other attractions, including beaches, cafes, and shops. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the fortress, or take a boat tour of the island.
How to Get to the Fortress of Suomenlinna
The easiest way to get to the Fortress of Suomenlinna is by ferry. Ferries depart from Market Square in Helsinki and arrive at the Suomenlinna jetty. The journey takes around 20 minutes and tickets can be purchased from the ferry terminal.
Conclusion
The Fortress of Suomenlinna is a unique and fascinating destination. Its long history and many attractions make it a great place to explore and learn about Finnish and military history. With its museums, fortifications, monuments, and other attractions, it is a must-visit destination for visitors to Helsinki.