The Bank of Finland (Suomen Pankki) is the central bank of Finland. It
is the fourth oldest central bank in the world.
The Bank of Finland was established on 1 March in 1812 in the city of
Turku by Alexander I of Russia. In 1819
it was relocated to Helsinki. The Bank created and regulated the Finnish Markka
until Finland adopted the euro in 1999. Currently it is Finland's monetary
authority, and is responsible for the country's currency supply and foreign
exchange reserves.
The building
The Bank of Finland is one
of the best known administrative buildings in Finland. This slightly pompous
grey stone building designed by German architect Ludvig Bohnstedt was completed
in 1882. An extension was made in the 1960s. The impression the Bank of Finland
gives is mainly of power: the building oozes strength. Despite its relatively
small size, the Bank of Finland's majestic and simple architecture makes it a
truly impressive landmark. On the righthand side of the building, on
Rauhankatu, is a small open courtyard with a fountain designed by Eila
Hiltunen. Though not particularly romantic in style, the fountain brings an
element of softness to the whole building. The small square in front of the
Bank sports a statue of J. V. Snellman (see information on card) dating from
1923, sculpted by Emil Wikström.
Another interesting item
in this postcard is the flag flying on the building. As the Bank of Finland is an official institution, the flag
flying is the State Flag of Finland (ie with a crest).
This Postcrossing postcard was received on 9 April 2014 from Piipi22. She has used a Postcrossing stamp on this card. This is the first time I have seen it, thank you Piipi22!
No comments:
Post a Comment