Exploring the Historic Sea Fortress of Suomenlinna

The second Host Week day took our international Youth Exchange participants to Suomenlinna, where history, sea views, underground tunnels and a relaxed summer atmosphere created another unforgettable Finnish experience.

The second Host Week adventure brought 20 international Youth Exchange participants and several host family members to one of Finland's most famous landmarks – the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Suomenlinna.

Originally built in the mid-18th century, Suomenlinna is one of the world's largest sea fortresses. It was constructed across several islands to protect the region from naval attacks and has served under both Swedish and Russian rule before becoming part of independent Finland. Suomenlinna was built by Sweden to defend against the growing Russian threat. France helped pay for the construction, while thousands of soldiers, craftsmen and local workers built the fortress.

Today, it is not only an important historical site but also a vibrant residential district and one of Helsinki's most popular attractions.

Our visit began with a guided tour introducing the history of the fortress and its role in protecting Finland's coastline. Along the way, we explored the impressive stone walls, historic buildings, cannons and scenic sea views while learning how the fortress was built and how life on the island has changed over the centuries.

After the introduction, the group split into two smaller groups. One group continued exploring the island's historic streets, colourful houses and many of its best-known landmarks. The other group chose a more adventurous route by visiting the famous underground tunnels hidden beneath the fortress walls, discovering another fascinating part of Suomenlinna's military history.

The participants later gathered for lunch at a local restaurant before enjoying some free time on the island. Some visited the shop, while others simply relaxed by the sea, enjoyed the beautiful summer weather and took in the peaceful atmosphere that makes Suomenlinna such a special place.

The young visitors described the day as a perfect combination of history, culture and nature.

"We went to Suomenlinna, the fortress island in Finland. We walked a lot and got to know the fortress and its cultural places. The cannons, the tunnels and the beach were all very beautiful. We also had a nice stop to eat. It was a really fun day and a very nice place to walk around."

Every Host Week day introduces the participants to a different side of Finland. After experiencing Finnish island nature on the first day, the visit to Suomenlinna gave them a glimpse into Finland's rich history while creating new memories together in one of the country's most iconic locations.

What is the Lions Youth Exchange?

The Lions Youth Exchange gives young people aged 16–21 the opportunity to experience another country by living with a local host family and taking part in an international youth camp. The programme helps participants discover new cultures, improve their language skills, make lifelong international friendships and grow as independent young adults.

For Finnish host families, the experience is just as rewarding. Instead of acting as tour guides, families simply welcome a young guest into their everyday life. By sharing normal family activities, meals and summer traditions, they give the visitor an authentic experience of Finland while often creating friendships that continue long after the exchange has ended.