Rautalahti

Rautalahti is a village and former municipality of Finland, located in the province of Western Finland and the region of Satakunta. It is part of the city of Pori. The village is situated on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, approximately 10 kilometers east of the city center of Pori. Rautalahti is known for its sandy beaches, which are popular among locals and tourists alike. The village has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. In the 19th century, Rautalahti was a significant center for the iron industry, giving the village its name, which translates to "iron field" in Finnish. Today, Rautalahti is a residential area with a mix of old and new buildings. It is home to several schools, a library, and a sports center. The village also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the annual Rautalahti Festival, which celebrates the village's history and traditions. Rautalahti is connected to Pori by a regular bus service and a pedestrian bridge over the railway line. The village is also served by a local railway station, which is part of the Helsinki–Turku railway line. In 2009, Rautalahti was merged with the city of Pori, becoming a part of the city's eastern district. Despite the merger, Rautalahti retains its distinct character and continues to be an important part of Pori's urban landscape.