On a tight cluster of islands just south of the Helsinki
fish market the sea fortress of Suomenlinna. The greatest fortress of the
Swedish empire, it was founded in 1748 to protect the eastern part of the
empire against Russian attack. However it later fell to the Russians and
remained under their control until Finland
gained independence in 1917. Most attractions are on the two main islands, Iso
Mustasaari and Susisaari, connected by a small bridge. Several museums depict
the military and maritime history of the fortress, complete with old bunkers,
cannons and model ships. A shipyard dating from the 1750s is still active
today, with as many as two dozen ships at the dry dock at any given time. The
fields around Suomenlinna's stone ramparts are a favorite picnicking
destination for locals.
Visiting Helsinki
Helsinki’s airport is about 12 miles north of the city and
has flights from the United States, Europe, and Asia. There is train service
between Helsinki and Russia and Sweden, but not Norway. The central train
station is connected by a pedestrian tunnel to the city’s metro system. Helsinki is also accessible by bus
or car. International ferries travel to Stockholm, Tallin, in Estonia, and Travemünde and
Lübeck in Germany. There is also a
catamaran and hydrofoil service to Tallin.
Helsinki’s roads are relatively free of traffic, but parking
is difficult. The city has a very extensive metro system, which includes busses
and metro trains. Bicycling is also a good way to explore the city.