Suomenlinna Island

Suomenlinna Island in Finland is a massive sea fortress that was constructed more than 250 years ago. Although the population is much less nowadays, at one time it was home to some 4,600 people although today, just 900 people live on the island. The construction of Suomenlinna Island got started in 1748 at which time Finland was still a part of the Swedish Empire. The fortress was built by the Swedes as a means of countering the increasing Russian naval strength in Kronstadt.

Originally, this fortress was called Sveaborg, which translates to “Sweden’s Fortress”. However, in 1918, the fortress was renamed to Suomenlinna, which translates to “Finland’s Fortress”, just one year after Finland achieved independence. Today, Suomenlinna Island offers several attractions such as incredible museums, restaurants, and guided walks. If you want a fun day outing, a trip to Suomenlinna Island would be ideal for the entire family.

Other things to do while on Suomenlinna Island include a trip to the King’s Gate. This gate is the symbol of Suomenlinna, being built from 1753 to 1754. History tells us that this very gate was built on the exact spot where the ship anchored, bringing King Adolf Fredrik of Sweden, the fortress’ founder, back. This two-story fortress is framed in limestone but in 1770, the King’s Gate design was changed to a double drawbridge and stairway.

Next, there is the courtyard, which was designed by Augustin Ehrensvard, the same man who is honored by the Ehrensvard Museum also on Suomenlinna Island. Houses surrounding the courtyard include the main guardhouse and the commander’s house. The architectural setting of the courtyard is quite impressive, featuring concave facades that make the courtyard appear much larger than it actually is. Sadly, the courtyard was damaged in 1855 during the Crimean War but even so, you cannot help but be impressed by it.

Next on Suomenlinna Island is the Jetty Barracks. These pink barracks are the most obvious from the Russian years. Constructed from 1868 to 1870, these barracks served as one of the main gateways into the fortress. Today, most people coming to Suomenlinna Island come through the Jetty Barracks even though the west wing area is a recording studio and another part, a post office. In addition, the Jetty Barracks house a gallery, a brewery, and a wonderful restaurant.

The largest building on Suomenlinna Island is the Crownwork Ehensvard. This particular building was first constructed in 1775 with King Gustav III of Sweden laying the very, first stone. The northern part of this building is made from solid granite, designed with storage for cannons and muskets. Today, this building is used as a daycare center, office of the Governing Body of Suomenlinna, and even two rooms that are rented out for public use.

As you make your way around Suomenlinna Island, you will find many different buildings and structures. Others include the docks, which are still used today for wooden vessel repair, Hyva Omatunto, an unusual looking fortress outwork but also one of the most prominent buildings on the island, the Church of Suomenlinna that was built in 1854, used often for weddings that can hold up to 400 people, and more. Finally, Suomenlinna Island boasts seven museums, many that are devoted to wartime relics.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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