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We've compiled the best of the best in Southwestern Coast and the Ålands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Completed in 1480, this church was a place of worship for both monks and nuns and operated under the aegis of the Catholic Church until it was dissolved by the Reformation in the 16th century. Buildings fell into disrepair, then were restored 1963–65 and again in 2011–12. The church is all that remains of the convent. It’s now the wonderful main venue for concerts during the Naantali Music Festival in June.
About 8 km (5 miles) from the village of Kastelholm in Sund are the scattered ruins of a huge naval fortress, which was built by the Russians in the early 19th century. It was only half-finished when it was destroyed by Anglo-French forces during the Crimean War. The fortress is open for touring at all times and has explanatory signs. An informative visitor center presents the history of Bomarsund and the circumstances in which it was attacked. Cross the short bridge over the channel to visit the secluded cemeteries of the fortress's diverse former occupants.
Åland is known for its many beautiful stone churches adorned with votive ships. One of the best examples is at Hammarland, a village about 30 km (18 miles) northwest of Mariehamn, with 12th-century origins.
At this popular museum near the castle at Kastelholm, the buildings and outhouses from the 18th century show what farming life was like on the island 200 years ago. A traditional maypole, which is a typical feature of the Åland landscape, is erected here on Midsummer Eve. The buildings are open only in the summer months, but the museum hosts a small Christmas market during Advent season.
The "mother church" of the Finnish Lutheran faith and Finland's national shrine, this medieval cathedral was first consecrated in 1300 (before the Reformation) and its 101-meter-tall stone tower is one of the city's main landmarks in its most historic quarter next to a broad cobbled square and close to the river. It contains a small museum of historic items as well as the tomb of Bishop Hemming, one of the cathedral's first benefactors.
