Åland, Autonomous archipelago in Baltic Sea, Finland.
Description
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.
History
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.
Culture
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.
Practical
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.
Did you know?
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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Pommern
13.4 km
Kastelholm Castle
7.8 km
Bomarsund
16.3 km
Svenska Högarna
82.8 km
Church of St. Olaf
6.9 km
Isokari lighthouse
80.9 km
Stora Nassa
93.4 km
Söderarm lighthouse
59.7 km
Åland Maritime Museum
13.3 kmCaves of Jeremias
85.1 km
Eckerö Mail and Customs House
22.1 km
Märket lighthouse
45.8 km
Finström Church
5.3 kmAndersudde
23.4 km
Gustaf Dalén
59.4 km
Eckerö Church
18.4 km
Vita Björn Prison Museum
7.9 km
Tjärven lighthouse
57.1 km
Kumlinge Church
46.2 km
Saint George Church in Mariehamn
13.3 km
Hammarland Church
11 km
Nyhamn lighthouse
28.6 km
Åland Museum
13.3 kmKatanpää Fortress
80.6 km
Sälskär lighthouse
29.1 km
Bomarsund Bridge
16.5 km
Lemland church
17.6 km
Wallburg Borge
10.2 km
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