Mariehamn
Travel Guide > Europe > Åland > Mariehamn
Introduction
Mariehamn is the capital and largest town on Åland, an autonomous territory under Finnish sovereignty. It is located in the south of the autonomous islands and has about 11,000 inhabitants. The town is a major port and located on a peninsula has two harbours on both sides, with the western harbour being a major port of call of international sea traffic between Sweden and Finland. Mariehamn is a mainly Swedish-speaking town and around 90% of the inhabitants speak it as their native language. As well as the seat of the government of Åland, the town is the cultural and economic heart of Åland.
Neighbourhoods
Sights and Activities
Pommern Museum
The Pommern Museum is located in a unique four masted sailing vessel that was named the Pommern. Built in Glasgow, Scotland this fine ship was launched in 1903. In 1923 she was purchased by Gustaf Erikson in Mariehamn. The ship mainly carried wheat between Australia and England till 1939 when World War II broke out. Since 1957 the Pommern was moored next to the Åland Maritime Museum in the western harbour of Mariehamn. The ship is open May to June: 9 am to 5 pm, July: 9 am to 7pm, August: 9 am to 5 pm and September: 10 am to 4 pm. When the museum is closed for the season it is possible to rent the boat for private events.
Other Sights and Activities
- Åland Maritime Museum - Is a nice museum located next to the Pommern. It is possible to buy combination tickets for the museum and the ship.
Events and Festivals
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This is version 4. Last edited at 20:29 on Jul 23, 08 by Lavafalls (+963). 2 articles link to this page.
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