Finland Culture
Finnish culture is one of the oldest cultures of Europe. Until the XX century the culture of Finland experienced a significant Swedish influence. Prolonged stay of Russia have little impact on the development of Finnish culture. After declaring independence in 1917, the Finns regained their national identity and their cultural heritage.
Literature
The first book in Finnish was published only in the 16th century. Until then, the language of literature, as well as the language of administration and commerce, was Swedish. Literature in Finnish appeared relatively later. The first written records refer only to the era of the Reformation. The Kalevala, national epic of Finland, was an endless source of inspiration for many writers and painters. Aleksis Kivi wasd the first known author who writes in the Finnish language. His well known novel “These Seven Brothers”, describing the realities of rural life, is considered to be one of the classics of Finnish literature. Among the most famous Finnish authors of the 20th century are Vaino Linna, Mikko Waltari, Sillanpaa (who was awarded with the Nobel Prize in 1939). All of the, have an international reputation.
Theater
The theatrical life of Finland is developing progressively. Today many actors performing in Finnish theaters are enjoying international fame and recognition. The theatrical life of Finland began in the period of its autonomy, under the Russian rule.
The Finnish National Theater was founded in 1872. There are many theaters in cities and in rural areas having both professional and amateur groups. In summer you can see a lot of open air theatrical performances.
Finnish cinema has its roots in the late 19th century, but the film industry began to develop only after 1917 (after independence). There are also several cinema festivals such as the International Short Film Festival in Tampere, Children Film Festival, Helsinki Festival, etc.
Finnish architecture
Finnish architecture is famous throughout the world. Finnish style has always been strictly classical. Medieval fortresses, such as the fortress in Turku or in Savonlinna, as well as stone churches are said to be the oldest stone architecture structures of the country. During XVIII and XIX centuries mostly wooden churches were built. Not far from Savonlinna in Kerimäki, the world’s largest wooden church is situated,( acting in the present day) it was built the in the middle of the XIX century. Modern architecture of Finland has retained all Finnish characteristics.
Music
In contrast to neighboring Sweden and Norway, in Finland there was no royal court that could support the musical life and finance it, in particular, expensive opera performances. Therefore, the Finnish music is deeply rooted in a unique folk tradition. Without exaggeration we can say that the national epic Kalevala (1835) is the basis of Finnish culture – including music. Jean Sibelius is one of the leading figures of the national culture. His success in the world – a symbol of Finnish aspirations in the field of culture, the Finnish art. For the Finnish Sibelius represents national identity, and therefore means more than a world-class composer.
Music by Sibelius performed primarily in large cities. Merikanto Oscar is also famous (1868-1924), a multi-musician – pianist, conductor, composer and critic. In addition to his writings, he played the popular foreign works.
Celebrations
The most beloved and colorful celebration of the country – “Yuhannes” (20-24 June) – the longest day of the year, Midsummer’s Day or the day of John the Baptist, when many celebrations around large bonfires “cocci” in nature, song festivals and performances of folk groups last for the entire night.Every year in September-August in Helsinki, is a music festival with a lot of concerts of classical music, rock, jazz, theatrical performances and art exhibitions. During the polar night in Helsinki, the famous “Forces of Light” with a unique light and music show. In July and August – International Opera Festival in Savonlinna.
Photo credit to gruntzooki.
