nagu

Nagu, known in Finnish as Nauvo, is a municipality in the Archipelago Sea off Finland’s southwest coast. It sits in the Turku region and consists of the main island of Nagu/Nauvo and numerous smaller islands connected by bridges and ferries, creating a distinctive archipelago landscape.

The area has a Swedish-speaking majority, a characteristic of the Turku archipelago, with Finnish used as a minority language. The population includes long-time residents and seasonal visitors drawn to maritime communities and island life.

Economy centers on services, tourism, fishing, and boating. In summer, the archipelago attracts visitors to harbors, guesthouses, and nature activities; year-round residents maintain local services and keep the island connections active. The region is known for outdoor recreation, coastal scenery, and a slow-paced, sea-oriented lifestyle.

Culturally, Nagu/Nauvo preserves a maritime heritage with traditional wooden houses, coastal trails, and harbors that reflect the area’s long connection to the sea. Historical buildings and landscapes contribute to the regional identity and attract visitors interested in coastal culture.

In the 21st century, Finland restructured several municipalities, and Nagu’s administrative status changed as part of these reforms. The bilingual naming remains, reflecting the area’s Swedish and Finnish linguistic heritage and its continued recognition within the broader Turku archipelago.