Olavinlinna, the Finnish island fortress that is now a culture venue and museum, will be 550 years old next year, and Finland is planning a year-long celebration.
The National Museum of Finland, which administers the site, is looking for all kinds of civic and cultural organizations to sponsor events as part of the celebration. Olavinlinna draws about 130,000 visitors a year, 80% of them domestic, many of them coming for music events.
The fortress was originally created by Danish knights seeking to hold off Russian attacks on Vyborg and keep control of the Savonia region. By the 19th century, when Finland was ruled by Russia, its military role was over, and in 1865 it was opened to visitors. At that time, there were some renovations including turning the second floor of the Thick Bastion into a ballroom.
Since then, it's been home to opera festivals, dances and other events. In early days, access was only by boat but there is now a bridge to the nearby shore.
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