Ruotsinsalmi Sea Fortress

Ruotsinsalmi fortress was built by Russians in 1790-1796. It was part of the South-Eastern Finland fortification system which was planned to defence St. Petersburg. The sea fortress was located to islands in front of the city of Kotka and Kyminlinna fortress. It contained three main strongholds (Fort Katarina, Fort Elisabeth and Fort Slava) and several redoubts and artillery batteries.

Ruotsinsalmi fortress lost its original defensive value only couple of years later, when rest areas of Finland were joined to Russia after the Finnish War (1808-1809). It was disbanded in the 1830's and during the Crimean war (1855) Anglo-French fleet destroyed the empty fortress permanently.

Today individual remnants of fortresses can still be found for instance beside Catherine’s path and on the island of Tiutinen. Also Fort Elisabeth's embankments have been renovated in recent years. The island is easily accessible by regular boat services in the summer.

Address

Varissaari, Kotka, Finland

Details

Founded: 1790-1796
Category: Castles and fortifications in Finland
Historical period: The Age of Enlightenment (Finland)