Naantali: Rantakatu and the Church
Naantali is one of Finland’s oldest towns, founded in the mid-15th century around a Brigittine convent. By the 19th century, it had become well known for its seaside setting and its growing reputation as a spa town. Wealthier visitors came to enjoy the healing waters and the peaceful atmosphere, while the town’s residents lived largely in wooden houses clustered along narrow streets and by the shoreline.
The town’s Lutheran church, visible in the background of this photograph, dates back to the late Middle Ages and remains a central landmark. Its prominent position reflects both its religious importance and its role in shaping the town’s skyline. By the water, small wooden boathouses and dwellings line Rantakatu, the street that runs along the shore, showing the close connection between daily life in Naantali and the surrounding sea.
This historic sepia-toned photograph shows Naantali’s Rantakatu in the foreground, with rows of wooden houses and boathouses stretching down to the water’s edge. Small sailing boats are moored by the shore. Behind the houses rises the large Naantali church with its clock tower, while further in the distance, the spa buildings can be seen, marking Naantali’s long history as a seaside resort
Original Photograph
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Digitally Restored Photograph
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Photo Information
Original photo courtesy of the Finnish Heritage Agency
Photographer: J. Reinberg
Year: 1880-1899
Link to original photo here
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