Helsinki is a port city of islands, one of which is Soumenlinna, which was developed as a sea fortress beginning in 1700 when Finland was part of the kingdom of Sweden. Over the centuries it has been used in various wars to defend the port of Helsinki., as a prison, fortress, garrison and naval college.
Since 1991 it has been a world heritage site and today is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Helsinki.
We took the 15 minute ferry to the island from the harbour of Helsinki and the fare was 6.50euro return.
Very imposing as you approach
arrive into one of the picutresque harbours.
Actually there are four islands
The church is the only one which also serves as a lighthouse, at the top of the dome.
Wooden houses like cricket pavilions, house coffee shops. Formerly trading posts.
I get such a sense of peace, standing on the bridge. The sea lapping, seagulls calling, a muted boat horn in the distance. The rolling mist gives an atmosphere of mystery.
The naval college is still in use.
The population is around 900.
Waiting for the return ferry
People actually live on these little islands.
Back to the harbour at Helsinki
Denise
Love from Helsinki.
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denisefrombolton 
Having just spent the last week in Annapolis, which is where the US Naval Academy is located, it was fun to notice the similarities between the two towns – mainly the brightly colored wooden houses.Your last two photos are very artsy – they look like paintings.
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