In 1820, this building at Market Square began as a wealthy merchant’s home. The mansion became the governor’s residence in 1837 and later the Imperial Palace of Helsinki. After a major renovation gave the façade a Neoclassical appearance, the palace was used occasionally by Russian tsars and their families from 1854 through 1915. During WWI, the historic site was a hospital, military headquarters and ministry office. Once Finland declared independence, the Presidentinlinna became an official residence for the President of Finland.
