| The landscape of the archipelago has existed since time immemorial, ever since the ice sheet moved over the rocks giving them their unique, eternal form. | |
The consequences of the Ice Age can still be seen even today in the uplift of the land, which is rising at the rate of 50 cm a century, and which is continuously changing the landscape and coast-line. The se has always acted as a unifying link between nations. The Vikings travelled through the archipelago as early as the 9th century on their journeys eastward. Later on, their passage became a route for the Hanseatic merchants. Evidence of this is provided by the ancient finds discovered year after year in archaeological excavations, and by the many wrecks which rest on the sea bed. A thousand years ago, people came to the archipelago to hunt, fish or trade. Some of them stayed and began cultivating the soil, while others journeyed further. |
Thanks to its central location, the archipelago has always had good trade connections with the Finnish mainland, St. Petersburg, Tallin and Stockholm. Seafaring has traditionally played a central role in the life of the archipelago, and seafaring still holds an important place in providing employment for the inhabitants.
 At the same time, the region is also modern, with good connections and a varied programme of events.
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