Turku - Finland

Located on the picturesque southwestern coast of Finland, at the mouth of the serene River Aura, lies the charming city of Turku. As the regional capital of Southwest Finland and the country's oldest city, Turku boasts a rich history that spans centuries. With a population of approximately 194,000 inhabitants within the city limits and around 330,000 in the metropolitan area, it is the sixth most populous municipality in Finland and the third most populous urban area after Helsinki and Tampere. Turku's storied past is palpable in its historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere. Founded in 1229, as mentioned by Pope Gregory IX in his Bulla, Turku has played a pivotal role in shaping Finnish history. Once the capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland under Russian rule, it lost this status to Helsinki but remains an important business and cultural hub. The city's unique blend of Finnish and Swedish cultures is reflected in its bilingualism, with both languages being official. This diversity contributes to a fascinating tapestry of experiences for visitors and residents alike, from the culinary delights of traditional Finnish cuisine to the charm of Swedish-speaking communities. Turku has earned several prestigious titles over the years, including being named the European Capital of Culture in 2011, alongside Tallinn, Estonia. It was also declared Finland's "Christmas City" in 1996 and proudly holds the title of Food Capital of Finland, thanks to its historic fish market and high-quality restaurants that rival those found in larger metropolitan areas. The Port of Turku is a significant commercial and passenger seaport, with over three million passengers passing through annually on their way to Stockholm and Mariehamn. This bustling port underscores Turku's importance as a gateway between Finland and the rest of Europe. Despite its historical significance and cultural richness, Turku also excels in more modern aspects. The city scores exceptionally well in various quality-of-life indicators, including amenities (A+), commute times (A), health services (A+), cultural activities (A+), and childcare & education (A+). However, like many urban areas, it faces challenges such as noise levels (C-) and a somewhat contentious attitude towards new development projects (NIMBY score of D-). In summary, Turku offers its residents an enviable quality of life, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to its vibrant cultural scene, its gastronomic delights, or the convenience of its amenities and services, Turku is a city that warmly welcomes all who choose to call it home.

Turku

Turku
Country: Finland
Population: 202250
Metropolitan Population: {{formatnum: {{#expr: +++++}}}}
Elevation: 0.0 metre
Area: 249.1 square kilometre
Web: https://turku.fi
Mayor: Minna Arve
Postal code: 20000–20960