Summertown Porvoo

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Summertown Porvoo

Founded nearly 800 years ago, Porvoo is the second oldest city in Finland and evidence of its long history can still be seen and felt as you walk its charming streets. For centuries, the city has served as both a home and a source of inspiration for many Finnish artists.

Located about 50 kilometres east from Helsinki, it is possible to travel from the capital to Porvoo by steamboat in the summer. Even though Porvoo is not exactly a coastal town, it is connected to the Gulf of Finland via the Porvoo River. The river flows through the city, passing Porvoo’s most well-known landmarks: its red shore houses. Originally, the shore houses were painted red in honour of the arrival of Gustav III, the king of Sweden.

Historically, Porvoo has been an important centre of trade and the shore houses were once used to store goods and produce, such as exotic delicacies from distant lands.

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Helsinki

Helsinki is a modern, pocket-sized European city known for design and high technology. Helsinki’s attractive and unique character comes from its proximity to the sea, as well as its location between the East and the West.

Helsinki

Porvoo’s most well-known symbol and attraction are the lovely red shore houses. They were once used to store merchandise and exotic delicacies from distant lands.

Even though Porvoo is not a coastal town, it is connected to the Gulf of Finland by Porvoonjoki, which flows through the city.

In Porvoo city centre is Holm House, which hosts seasonal exhibitions and boasts a stunning flower garden in its yard.

Old Porvoo is one the most picturesque places in Finland and inspires photographers around the world. It has retained its traditional shape right down to the cobblestone streets. However, it is not a museum – there are about 800 people living and working in Old Porvoo. Please respect the privacy of these people when you visit!

More information: www.visitporvoo.fi/old-porvoo

When it comes to delicacies, Porvoo is definitely one of the best destinations in southern Finland. By the 19th century, people travelled all the way from Helsinki to visit Porvoo’s cafés and restaurants. The city’s intimate interior design shops are famous throughout the entire country, with styles varying from antique and romantic to modern and state-of-the-art.

The Old Railway Station is an interesting combination of old and new. The old building houses a hardware store, upholsterers and an ironmonger, as well as an art gallery and summer café.

In the warehouse beside the old railway station is a gift shop selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, and organic foods and pastries – something for everyone.

Porvoo has some famous chocolate makers such as Pieni Suklaatehdas and Brunberg’s Chocolate Factory, who also have a shop in Old Porvoo.

Porvoo Cathedral, located at the heart of Old Porvoo, is one of the city’s most well-known buildings. Built at the turn of the 14th century, the cathedral’s remarkable history has seen it burn down five times, most recently in an arson attack in 2006. Following the devastation, the cathedral was renovated for two years, finally reopening to the public in 2008. In the foreground of the photograph is the cathedral’s impressive bell tower.

Old Porvoo is a home to many lovely restaurants, cafés, shops and museums. The Old Town Hall Square is at the heart of the city. The selection of products at the market varies according to season. In the market café, people catch up with their friends and neighbours. Here is a photo of a summery ice-cream kiosk behind the Town Hall.

Built in the 18th century, the residential area of Old Porvoo is an idyllic and picturesque district perched on a hill by Porvoonjoki. The houses have been built according to medieval zoning and, in terms of architectural history, they are extremely important.

Porvoo is a perfect example of how gracefully the old can blend with the new, while still retaining its own unique atmosphere.

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Summertown Porvoo