About FI
Finland is a country located in Northern Europe. Here are some basic facts about Finland:
Population: As of 2021, the population of Finland is estimated to be around 5.5 million people.
Language: The official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish. Finnish is the more widely spoken of the two languages.
Currency: The official currency of Finland is the Euro (EUR).
Government: Finland is a parliamentary republic. The President of Finland is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
Economy: Finland has a highly industrialized and modern economy, with a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. The country is known for its expertise in fields such as telecommunications, forestry, and environmental technology.
Geography: Finland is the eighth-largest country in Europe and covers an area of approximately 338,000 square kilometers. The country is known for its thousands of lakes and forests, as well as its long coastline.
Climate: Finland has a temperate climate, with cold winters and mild summers. The weather is heavily influenced by the Gulf Stream, which keeps the coastal areas milder than inland areas.
Culture: Finland has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history that includes contributions to music, literature, and design. The country is known for its sauna culture, and for being the home of the famous Moomin characters. Finnish cuisine is also unique and includes dishes such as reindeer meat, fish, and berries.
National Culture Objects
Sauna
The sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, symbolizing relaxation, health, and social interaction. It represents Finland's traditions and is a ubiquitous feature in Finnish homes and public spaces.
Moomins
The Moomins are beloved characters created by Finnish author Tove Jansson. These fairy tale creatures symbolize Finland's literary heritage and cultural impact, particularly in children's literature.
Sisu
Sisu is a Finnish concept that embodies determination, resilience, and courage. It is a defining characteristic of the Finnish national identity, reflecting the nation's spirit and perseverance.
Kantele
The kantele is a traditional Finnish stringed instrument, often used in folk music. It symbolizes Finland's musical heritage and the preservation of its cultural traditions.
Midnight Sun
The phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains visible for 24 hours during the summer months in northern Finland, symbolizes the country's unique natural beauty and geographical location.
Rye Bread (Ruisleipä)
Rye bread, known as ruisleipä, is a staple in Finnish cuisine. It symbolizes the country's culinary traditions and the importance of simple, hearty foods in Finnish culture.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display commonly seen in Finland's Arctic regions. They symbolize the country's stunning natural phenomena and are a major attraction for visitors.
The national anthem of Finland is called "Maamme" (Our Land in English). It was written in 1848 by Johan Ludvig Runeberg, and the melody was composed by Fredrik Pacius. "Maamme" was adopted as the official national anthem of Finland in 1917 when Finland gained its independence from Russia.
Here are the lyrics of the Finnish national anthem:
Oi maamme, Suomi, synnyinmaa,
soi, sana kultainen!
Ei laaksoa, ei kukkulaa,
ei vettä, rantaa rakkaampaa
kuin kotimaa tää pohjoinen,
maa kallis isien.
Sun kukoistukses kuorestaan
kerrankin puhkeaa;
viel' lempemme saa nousemaan
sun toivos, riemus loistossaan,
ja kerran laulus, synnyinmaa,
korkeemman kaiun saa.
Here is an English translation of the Finnish national anthem:
O our land, Finland, our birthplace,
Ring out, our golden word!
No valley, no hill,
No water, shore more dear
Than this northern homeland,
Precious land of our fathers.
Upon our land's blossoming
Time will set a seal,
The cherished hopes and joys of ours
Will rise aloft in their fullness,
And in our native tongue there'll be
A prouder tone and ring.
