Kyminlinna Fortress
Kymenlaakso
Kyminlinna Fortress, located on Hovinsaari island in Kotka, Finland, is a significant historic military structure built by Russia after the Russo-Swedish War of 1788–1790. Designed as part of a dual fortification system alongside the Ruotsinsalmi sea fortress, Kyminlinna was intended to defend against land-based attacks along the King's Road. The fortress features a distinctive five-cornered caponier layout spanning approximately 800 meters in diameter and covering around 74 hectares. Its ramparts are intersected by modern infrastructure such as the Kotka railway and national roads. The fortress includes 23 buildings, many now in varying states of disrepair after Finnish Defence Forces ceased using it in 2005. Though it never saw action during the Crimean War, Kyminlinna played a role during the Finnish Civil War, witnessing a battle in 1918. Later, it served multiple purposes including a refugee camp, prisoner of war camp, and hospital during World War II. Today, Kyminlinna stands as an important cultural and historical site reflecting Finland's complex military past and Russian influence in the region.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening times before visiting, as some areas may be restricted or in disrepair. Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the extensive grounds. Booking guided tours in advance can enhance the experience and provide deeper historical insights. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Wear comfortable footwear due to uneven terrain and partial ruins.
Interesting facts
- •Kyminlinna Fortress is one of the largest fortresses in Finland, covering approximately 74 hectares.
- •The fortress's pentagonal design is a rare example of a five-cornered caponier layout.
- •Kyminlinna was part of a dual fortification system with the Ruotsinsalmi sea fortress to protect the region from both land and sea attacks.
- •During the Finnish Civil War, Kyminlinna saw its only battle on April 9, 1918, involving German forces and Red Guards.
- •The fortress grounds include 23 buildings, many of which are abandoned and in various states of decay.
- •Modern infrastructure such as a railway and national roads cut through parts of the fortress ramparts.
History
The original fortification at Kyminlinna was a smaller bastion fortress built between 1791 and 1795 under the supervision of Russian Marshal Alexander Suvorov and later General Jan Pieter van Suchtelen.
This initial fortress was demolished to make way for the larger Kyminlinna built from 1803 to 1808, designed by General Suchtelen.
Although incomplete by the Finnish War, the fortress lost much of its military relevance after the Russo-Swedish border shifted north.
Kyminlinna did not engage in combat during the Crimean War but was active during the Finnish Civil War in 1918.
It continued to serve various military and civilian functions through World War II and was used by the Finnish Defence Forces until 2005.
Place Guide
Main Gate and Ramparts1803–1808
The main gate on the south-western side serves as the primary entrance and is a notable architectural feature of the fortress. The surrounding ramparts showcase the pentagonal defensive design and offer views of the extensive grounds.
Guardhouse and North-Eastern GateEarly 19th century
The guardhouse near the north-eastern gate is one of the 23 buildings within the fortress. It provides insight into the military functions and daily life of the garrison stationed here.
Underground TunnelsEarly 19th century
Partially collapsed tunnels run beneath the fortress, originally designed for troop movement and defense. These tunnels add to the fortress's complexity and historical intrigue.
Contact
Phone: 045 3101412
