Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna – most beautiful castle in Finland
Olavinlinna medieval castle lies on a rocky island in Lake Saimaa area in the town of Savonlinna, in Finland. Olavinlinna Castle is one of the best preserved castles in the Nordic countries. The castle (fortress) was built in 1475 by Dano-Swedish statesman and regent of Sweden Erik Axelsson Tott and should serve to repel attacks from the east and as a protection of the eastern border of Sweden. The castle had an important strategic position, as it lies on the channel connecting many lakes around.
Olavinlinna Castle in Finland by Miraceti
In 1714, the Castle Olavinlinna became the property of the Russians for a few years until 1721; but by 1741 it was once again in Russian hands, and remained so until Finland was granted independence from Russia in 1917. The castle has three massive towers, however it originally had five towers. Today there are several museum exhibitions and Castle Museum. In the museum there are objects associated with the castle. There is also a museum with a collection of religious icons and religious objects in Finland and Russia. Olavinlinna Castle Opera Festival takes place here every year already since 1912.
Olavinlinna Castle is one of Finland`s biggest tourist attractions.
Category: Castles, Castles and Palaces
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There was never a Swedish monarch by the name of Erik Axelsson Tott, he was a Danish-born Knight of the Swedish Crown, with the title of Privy Counsellor when he directed the initial construction work at Olavinlinna. It gained the 4th tower in the 16th century, as ordered by Gustav Vasa, and the 5th tower was added in the 17th century.
The article is somewhat misleading when it states “In 1714, the Castle Olavinlinna became the property of the Russians for a few years”. Yes, it did come under Russian control, and only until 1721; but by 1741 it was once again in Russian hands, and would remain so until Finland was granted independence from Russia in 1917.
Thank you very much for useful comment, I did some changes into article and add your notes.