Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna is a sea fortress made up of eight islands just four kilometres south-east of Helsinki. Six of the islands carry fortifications built across rocky ground. Bridges and a sandbar link five of the islands, while three remain separate. The largest cluster of defences stands on Gustavssvärd, once renamed from Susisaari. The islands cover eighty hectares in total, forming a district of Helsinki. The fortress began in 1748 under Swedish rule to guard against Russia. Admiral Augustin Ehrensvärd led the work, guided by French engineer Vauban’s star-fort ideas. In 1808 Russian forces took the fortress after a two-month siege, helping Russia gain control of Finland. Finland later renamed the site Suomenlinna in 1918, though its Swedish name Sveaborg remains in use. The complex became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Visitors walk along the bastion walls and tunnels that wind between the islands. The Naval Academy occupies much of Pikku Mustasaari, while the rest holds museums, cafés and quiet parks. Views across the Gulf of Finland stretch to the city skyline. The old dockyard area shows where ships were once repaired. On summer days people picnic beside the fortifications and watch ferries glide past. The place feels both historic and alive, with artworks and guided walks adding to the experience.