Off the Helsinki coast is an old fortess, Suomenlinna Sveaborg, established in 1748. The fort was built during the time that Finland was under Swedish rule. Later, when Finland was under Russian authority, more cannons were added, facing west, toward Sweden. A quick 15 minute ferry ride spilled us out onto the picturesque island. The ramparts are irregular in shape and undulate with the uneven terrain. (Photo.) Today, the island is a major tourist attraction and UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the island is a church, coutryards, restaurants, museums, small shops and a glass blowing studio. The island is the permanent home of about 1000 people. The fortress church was originally built as a Russian Orthodox church but was later converted into a Lutheran one. The steeple on the church served as a lighthouse for air
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