🇦🇽Aland Islands
About Aland Islands
Floating between Sweden and Finland, the Åland Islands are an autonomous, Swedish‑speaking archipelago in the heart of the Baltic Sea, celebrated for its tranquil seas, historic stone towns, and a unique blend of Nordic heritage.
Comprising over 6,500 islands and islets, Åland’s landscape is defined by rugged coastlines, granite cliffs, and a mosaic of forests and cultivated fields. The archipelago’s largest island, Fasta Åland, hosts the capital Mariehamn and offers gentle rolling hills, countless bays, and the iconic Bomarsund Fortress ruins perched on a peninsula.
Åland’s culture shines through its maritime traditions, folk music, and the beloved “Ålandic” cuisine of smoked fish, rye bread, and lingonberry jam. Annual events like the Festival of Åland and the sailing regatta “Åland Classic” showcase local crafts, dances, and a strong community spirit rooted in sea‑faring life.
A pivotal moment came in 1856 when the Crimean War’s bombardment of the Bomarsund Fortress forced Russia to cede the islands to the Grand Duchy of Finland, setting the stage for Åland’s modern autonomous status, formally confirmed by the 1921 League of Nations decision.
Key Facts
- Åland has its own postage stamps, issued since 1984, highly prized by collectors worldwide.
- The population is about 30,000 people living on a land area of roughly 1,580 km² (610 sq mi).
- All vehicles in Åland display a distinctive blue license plate with the Åland coat of arms.
Country Details
Capital
Mariehamn
Region / Subregion
Europe / Northern Europe
Native Name
Åland
Nationality
Aland Island
Currency
Euro (EUR - €)
Phone Code
358
Top-Level Domain
.ax
ISO Codes
ISO2: AX / ISO3: ALA
Coordinates
Lat: 60.1167, Lng: 19.9
Municipalities in Aland Islands
Aland Islands: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Aland Islands?
The capital of Aland Islands is Mariehamn.
What currency is used in Aland Islands?
Aland Islands uses the Euro (EUR), with the symbol €.
Where is Aland Islands located?
Aland Islands is located in Northern Europe, Europe.
What is the native name of Aland Islands?
The native name of Aland Islands is Åland.
What are people from Aland Islands called?
People from Aland Islands are referred to as Aland Island.
What is the phone calling code for Aland Islands?
The international dialing code for Aland Islands is +358.