What is Haikko Manor ?
A Transformative Experience
Finland is a land that was conquered by both Swedish and Slavic empires going back thousands of years. Only in 1917 did it become an independent country. The location, history, and architecture of Haikko Manor is the prime evidence of Finland’s wild past. Dating back to 1362, Haikko Manor was first built by the Dominican priory of Vyborg (now a part of Russia). It was then run by Swedish nobility for the next four hundred years.
In 1871, the Manor was purchased by General Sebastian von Etter who served under emperor Alexander II of Russia. During this period, many important members of the Russian imperial family and Finnish culture visited Haikko.
During the Russian revolution of 1917, Grand Duke Kiril Vladimirovits escaped to Finland with his wife and daughter. They gave birth to a son, Vladimir, who was christened at Haikko. Vladimir then became the head of the Romanov family that was spread all over the world. Vladimir eventually revisited Haikko in 1991.
Many dramatic events have also taken place at Haikko. For example, it was burned down five times over the centuries. First, in 1608 by Danish troops in 1508, and then the Russians burned it down three times, most notably during the 18th century Great Northern War. The last fire in 1911 was lit by a horseman who had been sacked because of heavy drinking.
The present Manor dates back to 1913 and was opened to the public in 1966. Due to its remote location, and Finland’s relative isolation from mass tourism, Haikko Manor is a true hidden gem of Northeast Europe.