Diet of Porvoo

The Diet of Porvoo was a political gathering of nobility, clergy, burghers, and peasants in 1809. They met over several months to establish the foundations for Finland's status as a grand duchy under new authority.

During the Finnish War, the tsar called an assembly to transfer Finnish territories from Swedish to Russian control. This gathering laid the foundation for Finland's path as a semi-independent entity with its own laws.

The site marks when Finland gained its own administration and the four estates took oaths together at the cathedral. This moment created a special relationship between Finland and Russia that set it apart from other territories.

The site is closely tied to Porvoo Cathedral, where the solemn oaths took place and where visitors can explore the history in context. Walking through the old town helps visitors understand the physical setting in which these important events unfolded.

The assembly was unusual because it included all four social estates at the same time, which was rare for the period. This diversity of representatives meant Finland's new order gained support from many different groups.

Location: Porvoo

GPS coordinates: 60.40000,25.66667

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:25