Restoration

Systematic restoration and renovation at Suomenlinna began in 1973, when the army left the fortress. A plan for the use of Suomenlinna was drawn up; the aim was to preserve the former military fortifications for posterity as a viable whole and as a monument of military architecture. The restoration and maintenance of the fortress is the responsibility of the Governing Body of Suomenlinna, an agency subordinate to the Ministry of Education and Culture.

Under the plan, the first efforts focused on converting ramparts and barracks that had previously housed soldiers into housing and working space. Other former utility buildings have been converted into museums, repair workshops, banquet and meeting rooms, and library and day care facilities. Modern architecture is only represented by a few detached houses and the Suomenlinna Visitor Centre. The tourist service facilities and principal landscaping work were completed for the 250th anniversary celebrations of the fortress in 1998. Repairs on the ramparts are continuous due to the climate and the constant wear and tear.

The key word in restoration on Suomenlinna is authenticity. Earthworks, embankments and the 200 or so buildings that form part of the defensive walls are being renovated in accordance with their architectural heritage. Modifications and other work on the original structures are carried out very sparingly, and original materials and methods are used in renovations as far as possible. Restoration is supervised by the National Board of Antiquities. An unusually extensive archive is available to the planners and supervisors.

Two major restoration projects are completed each year. The costs of the restoration are met with funds from the central government budget and from rental income. To date, renovations on the fortress have cost more than 100 million euros.

Restoration of a maritime fortress occupying 80 hectares of land on seven islands requires both expertise and considerable manpower. Experts in a variety of fields take part in the work: architects, engineers, professional builders, stone masons, gardeners, painters, scientists and restorers. Moreover, a large number of employees are engaged in maintenance and upkeep after building renovation and landscaping are completed. A substantial part of the repairs to the walls, embankments and buildings are carried out by convicts at Helsinki Open Prison, which is subordinate to the Ministry of Justice. There are about 100 convicts at the labour colony on Suomenlinna.

One of the most interesting studies undertaken by the Governing Body of Suomenlinna is a project on the salt deterioration of brickwork, which occurs when brick structures are exposed to sea water and sea wind. In the early 2000s, a European Heritage Laboratories project under the EU Raphael programme implemented under the leadership of the Governing Body of Suomenlinna yielded significant findings enabling a better understanding and control of the phenomenon. International interest in these findings generated a scientific network which continues to pursue cooperation in the field.