HELSINGFORS or HELSINKI, the capital, seaport and only large town of the republic of Finland. In 18ro it had only 4,065 inhabitants; in 1926 there were 215,829. Helsinki is well laid out with wide streets, parks and gardens. The principal square contains the cathedral of St. Nicholas, the Senate house and the university, all striking buildings of architectural distinc tion. They are mainly classical in style, but a number of modern buildings show the national spirit by using local material and decorative skill. Other public institutions are the Athenaeum, with picture gallery, a Swedish theatre and opera house, a Finnish theatre and the Archives. Some of the scientific societies have a wide reputation, and great interest and foresight is shown in edu cational matters. The use of the Finnish language for educa tional purposes has become general, but Western languages, French and English, and to some extent German, are also em ployed along with Swedish, the old language of culture in the country.
The fine harbour is divided into two parts by a promontory, and is protected at its entrance by a group of small islands. A third harbour is situated on the west side of the promontory, and all three have granite quays. The harbour accommodates the largest vessels, but it is usually closed by ice from January to the end of April, except for a channel kept open by an ice breaker. The harbour has been much improved in recent years and had over 7,00o yd. of quay in 1924. In 1925 a coal wharf was erected and a goods station was built alongside the harbour. Helsinki imports coal, machinery, sugar, grain and clothing. The manufactures of the city consist largely of tobacco, beer and spirits, and carpets.