Finland / Scandinavian Cultural Center

Soumi

Breif Overview

Official Name: Republic of Finland
Capital City: Helsinki
Area: 130,127 mi sq (337,030 km sq)
Government: Constitutional Republic
European Union Member State
Languages: Finnish and Swedish
Currency: Euro
Historic Currency: Markka
Population: 5.2 million
Real GDP per capita: $24,996
National Anthem: "Our Land" Lyrics by Johan Ludvig Runeberg, music by Fredrik Pacius. Adopted in 1948.

Fun Facts

The most recent version of the flag was adopted 29 May 1918. The white represents snow while blue symbolizes the lakes.
Only 8% of Finland is arable.
The sauna (pronounced with "ow", not the American "ah") is the national pastime.
Talking while your hands are in your pockets is impolite.

Finnish Links

CIA World Facts (source of above map)

Finland

Finns in Silicon Valley

Finnish Newspapers and Online Radio

Helsingin Sanomat

Finnish Radio