The seasons of the year all contribute to the soul of the Finnish people, and winter occupies a special place. In the middle of winter the days are short – in northern Finland the sun doesn’t even rise above the horizon for weeks on end.
However, when the winter sky is free of clouds, it can turn the most amazing shades of blue. And when everything is covered with snow, it reflects any and all light, seeming to brighten up even the dusk.
At the southern end of the country, the capital city Helsinki provides uniquely beautiful views that combine snow, ice, sky and ocean. It’s all within a few steps of the city centre – see our slideshow to see for yourself.
The capital’s winter coat
Experiencing a romantic sunset on the island of Uunisaari just south of Helsinki. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
Smoke-like mist rises from the sea on a winter morning. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
The sun sets over a wintery sea behind Kaivopuisto, the park that forms the southern tip of Helsinki. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
On a cold morning the church on the island fortress of Suomenlinna balances on a bed of fog. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
Frost-covered trees frame the tower of Suomenlinna Church. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
A sunny winter morning on Santalahti, a gulf located not in Helsinki, but farther east in Kotka. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
The snow makes everything quiet and peaceful along Töölö Bay in Helsinki, with Finlandia Hall visible in the background. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
Trees become dazzlingly photogenic when the frost settles on them. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
An installation by lighting designer Mikki Kunttu illuminates the Lutheran Cathedral on Senate Square in Helsinki city centre. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
Streetlamps light a winter passage past frosty branches on Unioninkatu. Photo: Niklas Sjöblom/taivasalla.net
By Nadja Karhunen
