200 years since the Porvoo Diet

In 1809, the War of Finland was still being fought between Sweden and Russia when the Russian emperor Alexander I convened the estates of Finland for a diet in Porvoo. The representatives gathered in the town for four months, from March to July. In the closing ceremony, Alexander I gave his famous speech promoting Finland to ‘a nation among nations’. This was a turning point on Finland’s way toward independence. The ties with Sweden, that had held tight for nearly 700 years, were severed, and Finland became a part of the Russian Empire. Granting of the status of autonomous grand duchy guaranteed Finland internal self-government. The Finns got to keep their own laws and religion, and the estates their special rights.

Events during the celebratory year

The events that took place 200 years ago are being celebrated in Porvoo in many ways throughout the year (for the entire programme in Finnish/Swedish, see www.porvoo.fi/valtiopaivat)

Porvoo City Festival

The celebrations will reach their climax on 28 March and 18 July, when the Old Town area of Porvoo will bustle with events.

A historical programme and many experiences are on offer at Town Hall Square; in the streets and yards; and at museums, shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Routes to take

If an estate member who took part in the diet walked the streets in the old part of Porvoo today, he would still feel at home: all of the buildings that were conference locations during the diet are still part of the cityscape.

You can follow the trail on you own with the help of a map or take a guided diet tour.

Music to enjoy

Porvoo will offer Big Band tunes in a diet mood at the Art Factory on 27 March. The celebration concert will take place in Porvoo Cathedral on 29 March. Music is played during many other festivities and anniversary events, as well.