Introduction to Helsinki

Located in the southern part of Finland by the Baltic sea, Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. Home to some half a million people, Helsinki is the center of Finnish commerce and culture. Much of the city’s neoclassical architecture dates from the period of Russian rule, which began in 1809 when Finland was passed from Sweden to Russia by treaty. After centuries of being almost landlocked, the Russians were delighted to have so much seacoast, and started building up the city of Helsinki and other ports vigorously.

Sights of Attraction in Helsinki

Finland declared its independence during the Russian Revolution in 1917, which set off another building boom for the new capital city. Modern architecture of distinctive Finnish style were mainly developed during this time.

Senate Square

Public buildings were designed and built along clean, new classical lines. A fine example of this style would be Senate Square, with the Government Palace on one side, and the University on the other. Within the proximity there are also the City Hall, the Presidential Palace, the Bank of Finland. But the building that dominated the square and the view from the sea is the splendid Lutheran Cathedral of St. Nicholas.

Kauppatori Market Square

Helsinki’s most colorful square located on a stone’s throw away from Senate Square, is the perfect place to shop for everything from fresh flowers and fruits to local art and crafts, not to forget souvenirs. This is also an ideal place for people-watching which may bring a whole new experience for your vacation to Helsinki.

Mannerheim Museum

Located south of Helsinki city, the former president’s home and the owner’s memorabilia is beautifully preserved.

Temppeliaukio Rock Church

Designed by architects-brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and completed in 1969, the unique church is carved and blasted from solid granite rock and covered with a huge copper dome.

Ainola and Sibelius Park

Further north of Helsinki is Sibelius Park, where a huge stainless steel monument was built to honor Jean Sibelius, a great nationalistic composer. Named after his wife Aino, Sibelius’s home is restored with all its original furnishings, books, and personal articles.

Porvoo is Finland’s second oldest city founded in 1346 by Swedish King Magnus Eriksson. Cobbled streets, ancient timbered buildings and the main square are some of the well-preserved historic heritage in the city. Another place worth visiting on your vacation to Helsinki is Hvittrask, home to architects and creators of Finland’s National Romantic style.

 

More Finland Vacations