Suomenlinna facts for kids
Quick facts for kids SuomenlinnaSveaborg |
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An aerial view of Suomenlinna
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| Location | Helsinki, Finland |
| Official name: Fortress of Suomenlinna | |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | iv |
| Designated | 1991 (15th session) |
| Reference no. | 583 |
| State Party | Finland |
| Region | Europe and North America |
Suomenlinna (also known as Viapori in Finnish) is a famous fortress in Finland. It is built on six islands in the sea right near Helsinki. This amazing place is a Unesco World Heritage site, meaning it's super important to the world's history and culture.
The building of this fortress started way back in 1748. At that time, Finland was part of the Kingdom of Sweden. Sweden wanted to protect its sea areas from Russia. They also needed a safe place to fix their military ships.
Later, in 1808, Russia took control of Finland. They made the fortress even stronger to defend Helsinki, which had become the new capital city of Finland.
In 1917, Finland became an independent country. The next year, in 1918, the new Finnish government took over Viapori. They gave it a new name: Suomenlinna, which means "Castle of Finland." Some of the islands were used for a navy school. There was also a prison where prisoners helped repair the old fortress.
Today, Suomenlinna is one of Finland's most popular places to visit. You can take a short ferry ride from Helsinki to get there. It's not just a historical site; it's also a living part of Helsinki. About 850 people call Suomenlinna home!
Contents
What is Suomenlinna?
Suomenlinna is a huge sea fortress built on a group of islands. It was designed to protect Finland from attacks by sea. Over the years, it has played a big role in Finland's history. It's a place where you can explore old walls, tunnels, and cannons.
Why Was Suomenlinna Built?
The fortress was first built by Sweden in the 1700s. They wanted to create a strong defense against Russia. It was also a key spot for their navy to keep ships safe and in good condition. Think of it as a giant, floating repair shop and guard post!
Suomenlinna's Role in History
Suomenlinna has seen many changes. It was under Swedish rule, then Russian rule, and finally became part of independent Finland. Each country added to the fortress, making it bigger and stronger. It shows how important Finland's location has been throughout history.
Suomenlinna Today: A Living Museum
Today, Suomenlinna is a unique mix of history and modern life. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals. People visit to learn about its past, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and even live there.
How to Visit Suomenlinna
Getting to Suomenlinna is easy and fun! You can take a short ferry ride from the market square in Helsinki. The ferry trip itself offers great views of the city and the islands. Once you arrive, you can walk around, explore the fortress, and visit museums.
Suomenlinna as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1991, Suomenlinna was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This means it's recognized as a place of outstanding universal value. It's important for everyone to protect and preserve it for future generations.
Images for kids
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Map of Sveaborg in the 1790s
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Augustin Ehrensvärd's grave at Suomenlinna
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View from Länsi-Mustasaari to Pikku-Mustasaari
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Guns of Suomenlinna
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A pojama flying the blue naval ensign of the Swedish archipelago fleet in Artilleriviken (Tykistölahti); painting by Adolf Geete, 1760.
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Russian 6 inch 35 caliber naval gun 1877
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M/S Mariella passing through the Kustaanmiekka strait after leaving Helsinki for Stockholm
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The Suomenlinna prison, Helsinki, Finland
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The M/S Suomenlinna II transports residents, tourists and vehicles to and from the harbour at Suomenlinna
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Suomenlinna, enter to the tunnel from island side
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The tunnels at Suomenlinna
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View of the partially frozen Baltic from one of the islands facing west. Part of Helsinki can be seen at the far right.
See also
In Spanish: Suomenlinna para niños
