Helsinki - Fortress Island or Suomenlinna

We headed out, after grabbing some picnic items at the inner harbour market, to Fortress Island or Suomenlinna. Built on six islands and with a population of around 500 people, this fortress is now a world heritage site for people to visit since 1973. It was started to be built in 1748, surrendered to Russia in 1808, bombarded during the Crimea war in 1855, used as a prison for red rebels in 1918, and built sleighs and aircraft for the Finnish air force from 1921 to 1936. I was amazed at its mix of historical buildings, fortifications, natural features, parkland, and wildlife on the islands.

Some of the raw coastline.

The official gate into the fortress for special functions. There is a small dock at the base of it.

 There are some tunnels you can go into and there is also a special tunnel for emergency services.

 The chains are connected to old cannons and makes for a nice display.

We were originally here to attend a Finish Tolkein Society picnic and glad we did for the interesting tour we received from a Polish gent who has lived in the area for a few years. This picture was taken at the tail end of the festivities after our walkabout.