HELSINKI

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, located on the southern coast along the Gulf of Finland. It anchors the Helsinki metropolitan area, which includes Espoo and Vantaa, and is home to about 1.5 million people in the wider region.

The city was founded in 1550 by King Gustav I of Sweden as a trading town. It became the capital in 1812, when Finland was a Grand Duchy under Russia, and later developed into the country’s administrative, cultural, and economic center. Helsinki has grown into a major urban center in Northern Europe and the seat of national government.

Helsinki’s economy emphasizes government services, education, technology, and design. It is home to several universities, including the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, and hosts a vibrant design and startup scene. The city is known for its distinctive architecture and planning, including the historic Senate Square and contemporary waterfront developments.

Key cultural and historic sites include Senate Square with Helsinki Cathedral, the red-brick Uspenski Cathedral, the National Museum, Finlandia Hall, and the Kiasma contemporary art museum. The Suomenlinna sea fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site accessible by ferry, is a popular historic site. Parks, waterfronts, and districts such as Esplanadi and the Design District contribute to its appeal.

Transportation is organized by HSL, providing trams, buses, and a metro system. Helsinki Central Station is a major rail hub, and Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves international and domestic flights. Ferries connect Helsinki to the surrounding archipelago.

The city is officially bilingual, with Finnish and Swedish as official languages, and English is widely used. Helsinki is noted for high living standards, public services, and a rich cultural life.