Rare Old Map of Finland (Suomi), 1930: Helsinki, Tampere, Gulf of Bothnia, Railways, Borders

The map titled "Suomi-Finlande," crafted in 1930 by the esteemed Maanmittaushallituksen kivipaino, offers a captivating glimpse into the geographical and political landscape of early 20th-century Finland. This exquisite piece showcases the nation's intricate tapestry of towns, villages, and cities, each labeled in their native tongue, while the legend is elegantly presented in French. The map serves as a testament to Finland's vibrant history, capturing the essence of its regions during a time of significant geopolitical change.

Maanmittaushallituksen kivipaino, renowned for their precision and artistry, produced this map during a period when cartography was pivotal in defining national identities and borders. Their meticulous work reflects a deep understanding of Finland's terrain, from the Scandinavian mountains in the northwest to the myriad lakes that dot the landscape. This map not only highlights the natural beauty of Finland but also underscores the cartographer's dedication to accuracy and detail.

The map intricately details Finland's borders with neighboring Sweden, Norway, and Russia, offering a window into the complex political dynamics of the era. The extensive road and railway networks depicted on the map illustrate the burgeoning infrastructure of the time, providing insights into the economic and social development of Finland. These elements make the map a valuable resource for historians and enthusiasts alike, eager to explore the interconnectedness of geography and history.

Beyond its political and infrastructural features, the map celebrates Finland's natural wonders, such as the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland. These bodies of water, along with the countless lakes, play a crucial role in the country's ecosystem and cultural heritage. The map's design, with its use of color and detailed topography, brings these elements to life, inviting viewers to embark on a journey through Finland's diverse landscapes.

In addition to its geographic and historical significance, the map offers a fascinating exploration of Finland's urban centers. Cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku are prominently featured, each with its unique story and contribution to Finland's rich tapestry. The map serves as a timeless artifact, capturing the essence of a nation on the cusp of modernity, while honoring its deep-rooted traditions and natural splendor.

Cities and towns on this map

• Helsinki
• Tampere
• Turku
• Oulu
• Lahti
• Kuopio
• Jyväskylä
• Vaasa
• Rovaniemi
• Pori

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Bodies of water:
• Gulf of Bothnia
• Gulf of Finland
• Numerous lakes throughout Finland
• Borders:
• Finland's international borders with Sweden, Norway, and Russia
• Mountains:
• Scandinavian mountain range in the northwest
• Other features:
• Extensive road network
• Railways

Historical and design context

• Date of creation: 1930
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Maanmittaushallituksen kivipaino
• Themes and topics:
• Political and physical features
• Highlights Finland's borders during the early 20th century
• Design/Style:
• Traditional cartographic style with detailed topography
• Use of color to differentiate regions and features
• Historical significance:
• Represents Finland's geography and political boundaries in the interwar period

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 20in (50cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.