Called Finland’s Fortress for its vital role in the country’s military history, Suomenlinna is a World Heritage site. Under control of Sweden, and then Russia, before finally becoming the national monument it is today, the fortress has six different museums on its grounds covering very different aspects of its grandiose past. For example, Vesikko was an active World War II submarine, awesome and intimidating in appearance and history. By contrast, the Toy Museum displays thousands of 19th century toys and, together with its traditional café, invoke nostalgia for Russia’ past influences on the great fortress.

www.suomenlinna.fi.

Written by  Sarah Clise.

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Fortress of Suomenlinna

Built in the second half of the 18th century by Sweden on a group of islands located at the entrance of Helsinki's harbour, this fortress is an especially interesting example of European military architecture of the time.

Copyright © UNESCO/World Heritage Centre. All rights reserved.

 

Review posted 7th December 2007 by World Reviewer Staff.

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