If you are in search of a truly unique cultural experience and want to feel the breath of centuries, here you are; Finland, a great place of fascinating historical heritage, is just what you will definitely appreciate. When you are already done with the huge shopping-centers filled with brands of international designers; wonderful attractions and popular restaurants, where you can taste both Finnish spectacular dishes and international cuisine; luxury hotels embellished with modern and traditional decorations, look no further; leave the hustle and bustle and visit Finnish ancient castles, offering original architectural solutions and decorations.
Olavinlinna Castle
Situated in town Savonlinna, Olavinlinna or St. Olaf’s Castle is the first Finnish castle built in 1475 for use rather than for show and the most northern medieval castle in the world. Conveniently nestled on a rocky island, it served as a protector from the Eastern border of Sweden, pushing away the attacks of the enemies. St. Olaf has one main castle inside, and is surrounded by three tiny towers, though there were five originally. These towers stand as a proof the castle was established after firearms came into use.
The magnificent castle, which serves as one of the most popular attractions of 19th century in Finland, hosts many festivals with the most renowned being the “Savonlinna opera” festival, which is held every July. Note that during the festival you won’t be allowed to visit the central castle if you are not included in a special tour.
The castle offers unbelievable opportunities for organizing glamorous wedding-parties in medieval surroundings, though it can cost an arm and a leg.
Kastelholm Castle
Kastelholm Castle is another well-known tourist-attraction in Finland built for strategic protection and it’s much younger (the construction began in 1384) than St. Olaf’s castle. Kastelholm is sometimes described as “a key to Sweden” because it was the last marine outpost to protect Stockholm. Once the magic castle was situated in a small island surrounded by waters and had a significant role in the history but nowadays, it’s just a nice place to visit and get some information about architectural wonders. There is a special exhibition hall inside the castle where visitors can examine the deep history of this miracle, which has survived many wars and struggles. Dating back to the 14th century, part of the tiny castle has gradually outgrown to ruins, however, it’s still astonishing and alluring.
Tavastehus Castle
Unlike other Finnish castles, Tavastehus, more known as Hama castle, is featured not only with its architectural solutions, but also with its dominant color — red. It has been damaged many times and during the 18th century the amazing building lost its two towers. For some time the castle served as a prison, designed by very famous Finnish architect Carl Ludwig Engel. There is no official document found about when the castle was built exactly. The red brick castle is repaired and now it’s in a good state and serves as a historical heritage to see and enjoy.
The magnificent castles of Finland are so alive that it seems you are back in the 13th-14th centuries.
No comments:
Post a Comment