Suomenlinna, Sea fortress on islands near Helsinki, Finland.
Six interconnected islands form a network of stone fortifications, bastions, and defensive walls that extend for several kilometers along the coastline facing the open sea.
Sweden commissioned the fortifications in 1748 under architect Augustin Ehrensvärd to defend its eastern territories. Russia captured the stronghold in 1808 during the Finnish War and held it until Finland gained independence in 1917.
Several museums operate within the fortifications, presenting Finnish military history, maritime traditions, and domestic life through permanent collections and rotating exhibitions.
Year round ferry service connects the Market Square dock to the islands with departures every 20 to 40 minutes. Visitors can explore freely, as most areas remain accessible without admission fees or guided tours.
Around 850 people live year round within the fortification boundaries, running a school, library, shops, and churches that serve both residents and the thousands of daily visitors during summer months.
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