Helsinki, Finland: Suomenlinna

Here's a place that has seen a lot of history roll by over the past few hundred years. It's Suomenlinna, a sea fortress that has protected Helsinki for centuries. It consists of eight islands, most of which have a land link.

This was built in 1748 by Sweden (the ruler of Finland at the time), as something of a deterrent to Russian interests. It didn't help keep the Russians out in 1808, and the place stayed in those hands for more than a century. Finally, Finland got to keep it when it declared independence in 1917. The place was run by the military for more than 50 years, when it was passed over to civilian control. 

Interestingly enough, part of it has been converted to public use. In other words, people live on the grounds now. About 950 people are residents at the present time, and a few hundred more work there. It's a pleasant boat ride to the island, which must make commuting in the summer a delight. The area is considered a good place for a picnic. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The church shown here was built in 1854. As you can imagine, it's gone from Eastern Orthodox to Lutheran over the years as it has changed hands. The top contains a lighthouse, making it that rare church to have a double purpose.