Helsinki is the only European capital with no medieval past. Originally founded by the Swedes in the 16th century, it remained little more than a village until 1746 when Sweden built a huge fortress just outside Helsinki’s harbor. The village boomed as it supplied the fortress. Then in 1809 Russia took over Finland, moved its capital to Helsinki and designed new public buildings using St. Petersburg as a model. Therefore, Helsinki looks and feels Russian – so much so that it was actually used for the filming of Dr. Zhivago and Gorky Park.

The skyline, as one comes into Helsinki, is quite distinctive with the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral rising above the harbor on one side and the Lutheran Cathedral rising above on the other.

The Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral was built for the Russian military in 1868. The large upper done represents the heart of Jesus with the 12 smaller ones representing his 12 apostles.

A Beautiful sight on the hill as one approaches Helsinki.

Just across the city is the Lutheran Cathedral with its prominent green dome and its 12 apostles overlooking the city and harbor. It is unadorned with the emphasis on preaching and music.

Another Beauty across the way.

Very imposing entry.

Next up – that huge fortress that Sweden built in the mid-1700’s to counter Russia’s rise to power. This was Sweden’s military pride and joy with 5 miles of walls and hundreds of cannons. It was the second strongest fort in Europe after Gibraltar.

Some of the 5 miles of walls!

King’s Gate – built in 1753 as a ceremonial gateway to the fortress.

One of Hundreds!!

Look out! Woman shooting;-)

Always FUN to climb on canons;-)

The Three Blacksmiths – perhaps celebrating human labor and cooperation.

Three + Three;-)

To more modern times – Church in The Rock. Blasted out of solid granite in 1969 and built within a years time. Barren of decor except a couple of crosses, the church is capped with a copper and skylight dome. Pretty awesome – –

13 miles of copper ribbon coil!

One last experience in Helsinki – a tram ride back to the ship.

Time to say good bye to Helsinki and head to St. Petersburg.

Off again – E& G