The Fortress of Sveaborg & the Suomenlinna Islands

Suomenlinna's defended islands are a crucial component of Helsinki. It is one of the best places to visit in Helsinki. Although they may appear far away at first, they are actually close by and can be reached with the same ticket as for buses and trams and a 20-minute ferry ride. The island is ruled by the fortification of Sveaborg, which is also known as the "Swedish Castle." To prevent Russian access to the Baltic, it was built in the middle of the 18th century. It was captured by the Russians in the Swedish-Russian War of 1808–1809, and they later strengthened and expanded it. 1918 saw its transfer into Finnish control, and Suomenlinna became its new name in Finland (Finnish Castle).

It was turned over by the military to civilian authorities in the 1950s and 1960s, and since then it has been renovated and transformed for cultural and recreational purposes. It is a museum, park, and arts facility that is now listed among UNESCO's world heritage monuments. The region is accessible for the most of the year, although hours and ferry access change, so check the website for the most up-to-date details.

Address: Suomenlinna C 40, FI-00190 Suomenlinna, Helsinki

Official site: www.suomenlinna.fi/en/

Google Rating: 4.6/5.0