Finland is known for its scenic beauty. Lakes and thick forests cover almost two thirds of the land. It also has a deeply indented coast and thousands of scenic islands lie off the shore. The gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Bothnia border Finland to the south and southwest.
Most of the Finnish live in the southern part of the country, where the climate is the mildest. Finns love the outdoors and the arts. They have a very high standard of living. Most of their wealth comes from the huge forests. They form the basis of the countries forestry products. The industry includes woodworking, and the manufacturing of paper and pulp.
More than 90
percent of Finland's people are Finnish by descent. The other
10 percent are Swedes. Most people of both groups are tall, with
fair skin, blue or gray eyes, and blonde or light brown hair.
About 6,000 Lapps live in northern Finland. They are short and
stocky, and their ancestors lived in Finland long before any Finns
arrived. Finland also has about 6,000 Gypsies, and small groups
of Jews and Turks.
In the cities, most Finnish own or rent apartments. Most people in rural areas live in one-family homes, on farms, or villages. The Finns diet consists mostly of fish; Herring, Perch, Pike, and Salmon. Popular meats include beef, veal, pork, and sausage. Boiled potatoes covered with butter and dill sprigs make up a favorite side dish. Butter and milk are important parts of the Finns' diet.
The Finns love outdoor sports. In winter, they enjoy ice hockey, ice skating, ski jumping, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing. Summer sports include swimming, boating, and hiking. The Finns also enjoy ballets, motion pictures, concerts, operas, and plays,
The Evangelical Lutheran Church is the state church of Finland, and the government has supreme authority over it. The people have complete freedom of belief, but more than 95% of all Finns are Lutherans. Finland has a rich folk culture which is reflected in the country's crafts, literature, music, and painting. Finland is a very unique country, from its food to its customs.
See more about Scandinavian countries.