History - Page 5 of 6 - thisisFINLAND

Main outlines of Finnish history

Swedish, Russian and independent eras in a nutshell.

Picture-perfect Porvoo beckons in southern Finland

It’s worth seeing what lies beyond Helsinki. Porvoo, the second-oldest town in Finland, charms visitors with its historical treasures, design shops, fashion and fine dining.

Life & society History

Finnish views of the Winter War: Portraying trauma mixed with heroism

March 13, 2020 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Winter War, the name Finland gives to the phase of the Second World War that lasted from November 30, 1939 to March 13, 1940. We talk to Finnish historian Antero Holmila about how that time is seen from a modern perspective.

Life & society Slideshows

A photographic leap through time in the Finnish capital

Our photographer discovers new ways to see Helsinki when he revisits locations immortalised more than a century ago by the renowned I.K. Inha.

Life & society History

Defensive victory led the way to peace

As the Second World War wound down, Finland found its way out from between the superpowers.

Life & society Slideshows

View the heart of Helsinki Cathedral

Photographer Tim Bird explores Helsinki’s Lutheran Cathedral to show you this popular landmark like you’ve never seen it before (slideshow).

Life & society History

Unveiling Finland’s mediaeval secrets

A pioneering research project aims to shed light on parchment fragments that represent Finland’s literary culture during the Middle Ages.

Life & society History

How Mannerheim helped Finland earn its independence

Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim, Finland’s most famous military leader, helped his countrymen earn “their own independent lives within the family of free peoples.” Before that, he served in the Russian military for many years; article includes slideshow.