Turku:
Turku used to be Finland’s capital but lost its position in 1812. After a devastating fire in 1828, it had to rebuild most of its houses and gradually became the thriving city it is at present. Still considered by many of its inhabitants as the one and only capital of Finland, it’s a modern university town (Finland’s first university was founded here).
Turku is also known as Finland's Christmas Town. This means that every year, for several weeks, Santa rules the city, including all the festivities and events that belong to it. There is even an annual official Christmas Declaration. Due to its location, it’s only a short ride to the sea, the small seaside towns and the outstretching fields in between.
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