Oulu, Finland

Oulu is a city and municipality in central western Finland, the center of Oulu Province. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. Oulu was founded on August 8, 1605 by the Swedish king Carl IX. Oulu is a city with old industrial and commercial traditions that developed around the Merikoski rapids.
Oulu's cityscape is an intriguing mix of ancient architecture and modernity. This contrast is best seen in the lively waterfront Market Square, where old sailors' houses coexist with the city's ultramodern theater. Due to a devastating fire in the 19th century, a large part of the square in Oulu was destroyed, but not left in ashes. It was rebuilt in the 1920s in a neoclassical style, with Karl Ludwig Engel as the architect. His are also the plans for the restoration of Oulu Cathedral in 1845.
Interesting sights and attractions also abound in Oulu's surroundings. Such as the vehicle museum, the old Tietomaa sawmill, as well as the rapids center located at the mouth of the river with its interconnected islands, remarkable fountains and modern architecture.
Also of interest is the open-air museum of Finnish life, located on the island of Turkanasaari, as well as the oldest wooden house in Oulu, located on the island of Pikisaari. Today it houses the maritime museum.
The university botanical garden with glass pyramids named after Romeo and Juliet is also exceptional.