Situated on a group of islands off Helsinki, Suomenlinna was built in the 1700s during Swedish rule as a maritime fortress and base for the Swedish Archipelago Fleet. A guided walk on the island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals why the fortress was constructed and its impact on the surrounding area. Suomenlinna, originally known as Sveaborg and later Viapori, has always been strongly linked to the political and military activities of whoever ruled the country. In addition, it has on several occasions played a role in pan-European conflicts. The tour also sheds light on the fortress’s unique architecture and its impact on nature. The galley dockyard, once the largest in the world, still operates and will be an integral part of the guided tour. A private charter cruise with beautiful views of the Helsinki archipelago will take visitors to and from the island.