poi · FI
Bomarsund
Getting around: About 25km northeast of Mariehamn, 25-30 minutes by car or seasonal bus.
Hours: Ruins open at all times, free. The visitor center runs seasonally, roughly June-August.
Bomarsund is a ruined Russian fortress, begun in the 1830s and destroyed by British and French forces in the Crimean War (1854) — an event that directly led to Aland's later demilitarization, since the peace settlement barred future fortification.
Walking among the substantial stone ruins gives a tangible sense of a fortress that was never finished and only briefly used.
Bomarsund FAQs
Entrance fee?
No, the ruins are free; the seasonal visitor center may charge for tours.
Why was it destroyed?
Attacked by British and French forces during the Crimean War in 1854.
How does it relate to demilitarization?
The peace settlement barred future fortification of Aland, a restriction that has held since.
How far from Mariehamn?
About 25km, 25-30 minutes by car.
Is the visitor center year-round?
No, typically summer only; the ruins remain accessible year-round.
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