City Identity Card:

1. LOCATION:
​Turku is located in the southwestern part of Finland, at the mouth of the Aura River on the shores of the Baltic Sea. It is situated in the region of Southwest Finland, surrounded by archipelagos and lush coastal landscapes.

2. GEOGRAPHIC BORDERS:
The city is spread across both banks of the Aura River, with numerous bridges connecting its eastern and western halves. Turku is known for its picturesque riverfront, which extends into the Archipelago Sea, comprising thousands of islands that define its maritime borders.
3. SIGNIFICANCE IN HISTORY:
Turku is one of Finland's oldest cities, founded in the late 13th century. As the former capital of Finland until 1812, Turku holds significant historical importance, serving as a center of trade, governance, and cultural exchange. It remains a symbol of Finnish heritage, blending medieval roots with modern innovation.

4. AREA:
The city of Turku covers an area of approximately 245 square kilometers (95 square miles), making it the sixth-largest city in Finland and a vibrant urban center with a balance of urban amenities and natural surroundings.

5. POPULATION AND DENSITY:
Turku is home to around 200,000 residents, making it Finland's fifth-largest city by population. The metropolitan area, which includes nearby municipalities, supports over 330,000 inhabitants, contributing to Turku's dynamic social and economic landscape.

6. LANGUAGE:
Finnish is the primary language spoken in Turku, as it is throughout Finland. Swedish is also an official language and widely spoken, particularly in coastal areas like Turku.

7. LANDMARKS:
Turku is home to several notable landmarks, including Turku Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th century and is one of the largest surviving medieval castles in Finland. The Turku Archipelago, consisting of thousands of islands and islets, is also a significant natural landmark and popular destination for outdoor activities.

1. Turku Castle
2. Turku Cathedral
3. Aura Riverfront
4. Forum Marinum Maritime Centre
5. Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum
6. St. Henry Ecumenical Art Chapel
7. Turku Archipelago
8. Turku Market Hall

8. ECONOMY:
Turku boasts a diverse economy with strengths in industries such as maritime technology, biotechnology, education, and tourism. It serves as a key economic hub in Southwest Finland, attracting businesses, students, and visitors alike.

9. GASTRONOMY:
Turku offers a rich culinary scene highlighting both Finnish traditions and international influences. Popular dishes include smoked fish, Baltic herring, karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties), and korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls).

What you can definitely try on the streets:
1. Rye bread with gravlax (smoked salmon)
2. Makkaraperunat (sausage and fries)
3. Vispipuuro (whipped lingonberry porridge)
4. Lohikeitto (salmon soup)
5. Turun sinappi (Turku mustard)

Drinks:
1.Glogg (Finnish mulled wine)
2. Birch sap juice
3. Koskenkorva (Finnish vodka)
4. Finnish craft beers
5. Sima (Finnish mead)

Desserts:
1. Maamme Laulu (Finnish national anthem)
2. Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pie)
3. Mämmi (traditional Easter pudding)
​4. Lingonberry pie

10. FLAG AND LOGO
Turku's flag features a blue field with a yellow cross, similar to the flag of Finland. The city's coat of arms, located in the upper left corner, depicts a red griffin holding a silver sword on a blue background. The griffin is a symbol of protection and strength, representing Turku's historical significance as a fortress city.