Capital: Helsinki

Population (Estimated July 2012): 5,262,930

Area Total: 338,424 km² or 130,666 mi²

Currency: Euro (€)

Official Language: Finnish or Swedish

Political Information: Parliamentary Republic

Official Religion: Lutheran Church of Finland (approximately 82.5% of the population are Lutheran, 2.3% have other religious beliefs and 15.1% have no religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Haltiatunturi at 1,328m or 4,357ft

Largest River:

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +2:00

Wildlife:

 Counties/Provinces/States: 19 regions (maakunnat, singular – maakunta (Finnish); landskapen, singular – landskapet (Swedish)); Aland (Swedish), Ahvenanmaa (Finnish); Etela-Karjala (Finnish), Sodra Karelen (Swedish) [South Karelia]; Etela-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Sodra Osterbotten (Swedish) [South Ostrobothnia]; Etela-Savo (Finnish), Sodra Savolax (Swedish) [South Savo]; Kanta-Hame (Finnish), Egentliga Tavastland (Swedish); Kainuu (Finnish), Kajanaland (Swedish); Keski-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Mellersta Osterbotten (Swedish) [Central Ostrobothnia]; Keski-Suomi (Finnish), Mellersta Finland (Swedish) [Central Finland]; Kymenlaakso (Finnish), Kymmenedalen (Swedish); Lappi (Finnish), Lappland (Swedish); Paijat-Hame (Finnish), Paijanne-Tavastland (Swedish); Pirkanmaa (Finnish), Birkaland (Swedish) [Tampere]; Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Osterbotten (Swedish) [Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Karjala (Finnish), Norra Karelen (Swedish) [North Karelia]; Pohjois-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Norra Osterbotten (Swedish) [North Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Savo (Finnish), Norra Savolax (Swedish) [North Savo]; Satakunta (Finnish and Swedish); Uusimaa (Finnish), Nyland (Swedish) [Newland]; Varsinais-Suomi (Finnish), Egentliga Finland (Swedish) [Finland Proper]

 Additional: Independence from Russia on the 6th of December 1917.

Finland

Finland, officially known as the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country located in Northern Europe. It shares its borders with Sweden to the west, Russia to the east, and Norway to the north, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including thousands of lakes, dense forests, and the iconic Northern Lights. With a population of around 5.5 million people, Finland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe. The capital city, Helsinki, is a vibrant hub of culture and innovation, while other major cities such as Espoo, Tampere, and Turku also contribute to the country’s rich heritage and modern development.

Finland is renowned for its high standard of living, excellent education system, and strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The country has a rich history and culture, with deep-rooted traditions and a strong sense of national identity. Finnish people are known for their love of nature and outdoor activities, and the country’s stunning natural beauty attracts visitors from all over the world. From the breathtaking archipelago in the southwest to the rugged wilderness of Lapland in the north, Finland offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers and locals alike.

Geography and Climate

Finland is a land of contrasts, with its diverse geography ranging from coastal plains to rolling hills and vast forests. The country is known for its thousands of lakes, which cover around 10% of its total land area. The largest of these is Lake Saimaa, located in the southeast, which is also home to the endangered Saimaa ringed seal. In addition to its numerous lakes, Finland is also famous for its archipelago, which consists of thousands of islands scattered along the coastline. The Åland Islands, an autonomous region of Finland, are located in the Baltic Sea between Finland and Sweden and are known for their unique culture and picturesque landscapes.

The climate in Finland varies significantly from region to region, with the southern coastal areas experiencing milder winters and warmer summers, while the northernmost parts of the country have subarctic and arctic climates. The winter months bring snow and freezing temperatures, making Finland a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In contrast, the summer months see long days with almost 24 hours of daylight in the northern regions, allowing for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The changing seasons in Finland offer a unique opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty in all its forms.

History and Culture

Finland has a rich and complex history that has shaped its unique culture and national identity. The country was part of the Kingdom of Sweden for over 600 years until it was ceded to the Russian Empire in 1809. After gaining independence from Russia in 1917, Finland has developed into a modern welfare state with a strong emphasis on equality and social justice. The Finnish people are known for their resilience and determination, as demonstrated during the Winter War against the Soviet Union in 1939-1940.

Finnish culture is deeply rooted in nature and folklore, with a strong emphasis on traditional music, dance, and storytelling. The national epic, the Kalevala, is a collection of ancient Finnish mythology and folklore that has had a profound influence on Finnish arts and literature. The country is also famous for its design and architecture, with iconic figures such as Alvar Aalto and Eero Saarinen leaving a lasting legacy in the field of modern design. Finnish cuisine is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients such as fish, berries, and mushrooms, as well as traditional dishes like rye bread, smoked salmon, and reindeer meat.

Economy and Industry

Finland has a highly industrialised economy with a strong focus on technology, innovation, and sustainability. The country is home to several multinational corporations such as Nokia, KONE, and UPM-Kymmene, which have made significant contributions to the global market. Finland is also known for its expertise in clean technology and renewable energy, with a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. The forestry industry plays a significant role in the Finnish economy, with timber production and paper manufacturing being major contributors to export revenue.

In recent years, Finland has seen a rise in entrepreneurship and start-up culture, particularly in the fields of technology and gaming. The country has produced several successful tech companies such as Rovio Entertainment (creator of Angry Birds) and Supercell (developer of Clash of Clans), which have gained international recognition for their innovative products. The Finnish government has also invested heavily in research and development, leading to breakthroughs in areas such as biotechnology, healthcare, and artificial intelligence. With a strong emphasis on education and innovation, Finland continues to be at the forefront of technological advancement on the global stage.

Education and Innovation

Finland is renowned for its world-class education system, which consistently ranks among the best in the world. The Finnish approach to education emphasises equality, individualised learning, and holistic development. Children start school at the age of seven and receive a comprehensive education that includes a strong focus on creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. There are no standardised tests or homework for young students, allowing them to learn through play and exploration.

In addition to its exceptional primary and secondary education system, Finland also boasts several top-ranking universities and research institutions. The University of Helsinki, Aalto University, and the University of Turku are just a few examples of institutions that have made significant contributions to academic research and innovation. Finland’s commitment to lifelong learning and continuous professional development has led to a highly skilled workforce that is well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global economy.

Wildlife and Nature

Finland’s diverse natural landscapes provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species, including bears, wolves, lynx, elk, and reindeer. The country’s national parks and wilderness areas offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe these animals in their natural environment. The Finnish archipelago is home to numerous bird species such as sea eagles, ospreys, and migratory waterfowl, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

The Finnish government has implemented strict conservation measures to protect its natural habitats and wildlife populations. National parks such as Nuuksio, Oulanka, and Lemmenjoki offer visitors the chance to explore pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged wilderness areas while respecting the delicate balance of nature. In addition to its terrestrial ecosystems, Finland’s coastal waters are teeming with marine life such as seals, salmon, and Baltic herring. The country’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy Finland’s natural beauty for years to come.

Tourism and Attractions

Finland offers a wide range of attractions for visitors seeking unique cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The capital city of Helsinki is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and modern amenities. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and the contemporary art museum Kiasma. The city also boasts a thriving culinary scene with diverse restaurants offering traditional Finnish dishes as well as international cuisine.

For nature lovers, Finland’s Lapland region is a must-visit destination with its stunning wilderness areas and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. In winter, visitors can witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the night sky or embark on a husky safari through snow-covered forests. In summer, the region offers endless opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting in the midnight sun.

Other popular attractions in Finland include the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the medieval town of Porvoo with its charming wooden houses, and the vibrant cultural festivals held throughout the year. Whether seeking adventure in the great outdoors or immersing oneself in Finnish history and culture, Finland offers something for every type of traveller.

 

FAQs

 

What is the population of Finland?

The population of Finland is approximately 5.5 million people.

What is the capital city of Finland?

The capital city of Finland is Helsinki.

What is the official language of Finland?

The official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish.

What is the currency used in Finland?

The currency used in Finland is the Euro.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Finland?

Some popular tourist attractions in Finland include the Northern Lights, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, the capital city of Helsinki, and the archipelago in the southwest.

What is the climate like in Finland?

Finland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are mild and sunny.

What are some traditional Finnish dishes?

Some traditional Finnish dishes include salmon soup, Karelian pasties, and reindeer meat.

What are some famous Finnish inventions?

Famous Finnish inventions include the sauna, the heart rate monitor, and the Linux operating system.

What is the education system like in Finland?

Finland has a highly regarded education system, with a strong emphasis on equal opportunities and individualized learning. School is compulsory for children aged 7 to 16.