What is Haikko Manor ?
A Transformative Experience
Finland 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 400 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.
Over the years, Haikko has also been the site of several dramatic events. It was burned down five times across the centuries. The first fire occurred in 1608, followed by additional destruction during the 18th century when Russian forces burned it down three times — most notably during the Great Northern War. The final fire in 1911 was started by a horseman who had been dismissed due to heavy drinking.
The current Manor dates back to 1913 and was opened to the public in 1966. Thanks to its remote location, and Finland’s relatively limited exposure to mass tourism, Haikko Manor remains a hidden gem of Northeastern Europe.