Foto: The wooden houses of Porvoo (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Finland - Porvoo is one of the oldest towns in Finland. The town is located about fifty kilometers northeast of the Finnish capital Helsinki. When we arrive by boat from Helsinki into the harbor, the large flow of tourists immediately stands out. The old town center of Porvoo has been preserved. The center still exudes a medieval atmosphere. The tourists quickly fade from mind as we stroll through the old town center on the guided walking tour. We walk past the 15th-century church, the natural history museum, through the old streets, past the house of J.L. Runeberg, and to the former town hall. Today, this houses the Porvoo Museum. Walking along the other bank of the river, there is a beautiful view of Porvoo. The mostly dark red houses reflect in the water of the river. On a terrace, we order a beer and enjoy the atmosphere. In the evening, we take the local bus back to Helsinki from the bus station.
Lapland the north of Finland
Finland - Contrasts are an important factor in Lapland’s appeal. The hustle and bustle of cities and ski resorts lie just minutes away from the peace and quiet of nature. Snow is guaranteed in Finnish Lapland. Snow remains for up to six months a year. On clear ...
The Helsinki Cathedral
Finland - Helsinki Cathedral is an Evangelical Lutheran church located at Senate Square in Helsinki. The bishop of Helsinki has his seat there. The building was designed by Carl Ludwig Engel in the neoclassical style. Engel designed the entire square. Construction ...
The meeting with Santa Claus
Finland - Across the road lies Santa Claus Village. This park is located exactly on the Arctic Circle. The Arctic Circle sits just above the 66th parallel north and marks the boundary where, on the longest day of June, the sun shines for 24 hours a day. This is ...