Frontpage | Helsinki 200 years as capital

Helsinki 1812–2012

By the start of the eighteenth century, Helsinki had become the fourth most important port of importation after Stockholm, Gävle, and Gothenburg.

Helsinki rises from the ashes as Finland’s capital

Four years after the catastrophic fire, Helsinki became the country’s capital.

Helsinkians embraced the jubilee year

The citizens of Helsinki embraced the Helsinki 200 Years as Capital 2012 jubilee year. During the year, many residents and guests to the capital participated in the programme of the memorable year.

The Blue Line

The Helsinki 200 Years as Capital jubilee year will culminate in a light installation above the anniversary year theme street Union Axis.

10.12.2012 – 31.12.2014

Commemorative Project

Helsinki was declared the capital of the Finnish Grand Duchy in 1812. Its elevation to capital status represents the most significant turning point in the city’s history

Sveaborg – The key to the birth of Finland and its capital

Without the Sveaborg army base just off the coast of the city, then tiny Helsinki might never have become the capital of Finland.

Children’s City

To conclude the 200th jubilee year, Helsinki City Museum will be handing over the city’s oldest building to its youngest residents.

21.11.2012 – 31.12.2012

Art on the Union Line

Modern Finnish art will be showcased on transformer boxes along the Union Axis from Unioninkatu to Siltasaarenkatu.

6.6.2012 – 31.12.2015

Jubilee year on the Union Axis – from Observatory Hill to Kallio Church

Unioninkatu is the Festival Street of the Helsinki 200 Years as Capital jubilee year. Emperor Alexander I of Russia, who elevated Helsinki to the status of capital, arrived in Helsinki along this street on his 1819 visit to the city, and named it Unioninkatu, or Union Street.

1.1.2012 – 31.12.2012