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Taavetti Fortress: A Bastion of Finnish History

Explore Taavetti Fortress in Luumäki: An 18th-century Russian-built fortress with historical significance and stunning architecture. A must-see landmark in Finland.

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Taavetti Fortress, located in Luumäki, is an 18th-century fortress constructed by the Russians to protect St. Petersburg. Explore the grounds, walls, and bastions of this historical landmark, which stands as a testament to the region's strategic importance.

A brief summary to Taavetti Fortress

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Explore the fortress on your own by following the signposts and information boards.
  • Visit during the summer to enjoy events like the Vallijamit music festival and the Marttila village market.
  • Take a walk or jog along the track that goes through the fortress.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Taavetti Fortress is located in Taavetti, Luumäki. From Highway 6, follow the signs to Taavetti Fortress. Parking is available on the west side of the town hall, near the entrance to the inner fortress. There are no tolls on the final approach. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The closest train stations to Taavetti are in Kouvola and Lappeenranta. From either station, you can take a bus to Luumäki. From the Luumäki bus station, the fortress is approximately a 2km walk or a short taxi ride. Bus fare from Kouvola or Lappeenranta to Luumäki is approximately €5-€10. A taxi from Luumäki bus station to the fortress will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Taavetti Fortress

Taavetti Fortress, situated in the municipality of Luumäki, is a fascinating historical site with roots stretching back to the era of Russian rule in Finland. Constructed in the late 18th century, the fortress was part of a chain of fortifications designed to protect St. Petersburg. The village of Marttila, where the fortress is located, was considered a strategically vital point due to its position at the intersection of key roads. The construction of Taavetti Fortress began in the 1770s, following Russia's control of the area after the Peace of Turku in 1743. Ordered by Catherine the Great, the fortress was named after Saint David of Thessaloniki. It was further expanded in the 1790s to become part of the defensive lines safeguarding St. Petersburg. However, its military significance diminished after the Finnish War in 1809 when Finland became part of Russia. The fortress consists of a circle of stone and earthen bastions connected by low curtains, with a dry ditch in front. In 1791-92, under the command of General Alexander Suvorov, numerous improvements were made to the fortress. Military use of Taavetti ended in 1803, and the fortress was nearly ruined before restoration work began in the 1980s. Today, the Finnish Heritage Agency recognizes Taavetti Fortress as a Built Cultural Site of National Interest. Visitors can explore the grounds, walls, and bastions on foot, immersing themselves in the history and atmosphere of this impressive structure. The fortress also hosts various events, including the music festival Vallijamit and the Marttila village market.

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