The Culture of Finland

An appreciation of the splendours of natural beauty and a high regard for technology combine to form a unique mindset among the Finns. Finland has the highest standard of education in the world and some of the best libraries. It is a nation of readers.

Finnish architecture is renowned. Helsinki landmarks, such as Aalto’s Finlandia Hall and the ‘Church in the Rock’ by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen are some examples of the country’s fine architectural traditions. Modern Finnish design is also renowned. In music, Jean Sibelius is the most famous composer. In literature, detective fiction is particularly popular.

The most important national institution is the sauna. Finland has saunas of every size and type right across the country. The smoke sauna is particularly characteristic of Finland.