Welcome back to Finland Adventure! In this video, I take you on a beautiful journey through the heart of Lappeenranta, a city rich in history and known for its picturesque surroundings. Recorded on the sunny afternoon of September 4th, with the temperature at a pleasant 25°C, this video captures the essence of a perfect day exploring this historic Finnish city.
Our journey begins at one of Lappeenranta's most iconic landmarks - the Old Church in the park. This charming, yellowish wooden church is one of the oldest in the region, and its peaceful atmosphere is a fitting start to our exploration. After visiting the church, we walk through a significant part of the park, where those who lost their lives in the war are buried. On the walls, you'll see the names of the fallen, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in Finland's history. The city of Lappeenranta, like many parts of Finland, was deeply affected by the wars of the 20th century, particularly during the Winter War and the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. The city was a strategic military location due to its proximity to the Russian border, and many brave souls from this region gave their lives in defense of their homeland. The monuments you’ll see in the video commemorate those who died and serve as a tribute to the resilience and courage of the people of Lappeenranta.
I personally have a special connection to this beautiful city. From 2021 to 2023, I lived in Lappeenranta while studying at the Lappeenranta University of Technology, located on the other side of the city, right on the corner of Lake Saimaa. During those two years, I made many fond memories of this place and the incredibly friendly people who call it home. Summers in Lappeenranta are particularly amazing, with long days, stunning sunsets over the lake, and a warm, vibrant atmosphere that draws people outdoors. Even now, I visit Lappeenranta a couple of times each year to reconnect with the city and keep those memories and friendships alive.
After reflecting on the city’s history, we continue our journey through the streets of Lappeenranta, enjoying the sunny weather and the vibrant energy of this city. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of Lake Saimaa, it's easy to see why Lappeenranta is often called the Climate Capital of Finland. The city is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, clean air, and preserving the natural beauty that makes this area so special. The warm and welcoming people, combined with the serene atmosphere, make Lappeenranta a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Finland’s nature and history.
As we stroll through the streets, we make our way to the harbor, where boats are neatly lined up along the shores of Lake Saimaa. The harbor is a bustling area and a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering breathtaking views of the lake and easy access to one of Finland’s largest and most beautiful bodies of water. Be sure to check out my other video on Finland Adventure, where I take you through the harbor of Saimaa and up the hills in the old part of the city for some incredible views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Lappeenranta has so much to offer, from its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning natural beauty. This city is truly a hidden gem, and I’m excited to share its wonders with you on Finland Adventure. If you enjoy exploring the beauty of Finland and discovering its natural and historical treasures, make sure to subscribe and hit the like button.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope you find as much inspiration in Lappeenranta as I do!