Åland, Autonomous archipelago in Baltic Sea, Finland.
Åland is an archipelago of 6,700 islands between Finland and Sweden, with 65 inhabited across the territory. The island group sits in the northern part of the Baltic Sea and connects Scandinavian coastal landscapes with shallow bays and skerry formations.
The League of Nations granted the archipelago special autonomous status under Finnish sovereignty in 1921 and established its permanent demilitarized position. This decision followed tensions between Finland and Sweden over control of the strategically located islands after World War I.
The islands carry Scandinavian place names and follow Swedish traditions in architecture and daily routines. Red painted wooden houses with white window frames shape the settlements, while midsummer festivals and crayfish dinners mark the yearly rhythm of residents.
Ferry connections from Finland and Sweden run throughout the year and link multiple ports with the archipelago. Travelers should note that some smaller islands are accessible only in summer by boat or small ferry.
The region maintains its own parliament and issues postage stamps that are sought after by collectors worldwide. Strict regulations limit the acquisition of property by individuals without long-term residency status or family ties to the region.
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