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Naantali (Finnish pronunciation: [ˈnɑːntɑli]; Swedish: Nådendal) is a town in Southwest Finland, and, as a resort town during the summer, an important centre of tourism in the country.[6][7][8] The municipality has a population of 20,312 (30 June 2025),[3] and is located 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) west of Turku.

Key Information

The town has a land area of 312.58 square kilometres (120.69 sq mi).[2] Most of this area is located on the islands, but the majority of the population lives on the mainland[citation needed]. Most of the islands are covered with forest and farmland, while the mainland consists chiefly of residential areas[citation needed].

History

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One of the oldest towns in Finland, Naantali was founded around the medieval Brigittine convent Vallis gratiae (or Nådendal Abbey), the church of which still dominates its skyline. The charter was signed by King Christopher of Bavaria, the then ruler of Finland, in 1443. The convent got trading rights and other privileges, and the town around it began to grow. It also became an important destination for pilgrimage.

In the 16th century, as Catholicism gave way to Protestantism as the official religion of Sweden (which Finland was part of at the time), the convent was closed, and the town plunged into a depression. This lasted until the mid-18th century, when the town got a tollgate and a customs chamber. In the two centuries of economic stagnation before that the town had become famous for its knitted stockings, a craft carried on from the times of the convent.

The year 1863 saw the founding of the spa at Cape Kalevanniemi, which raised the town's status as a holiday venue. In 1922, the Kultaranta estate on Luonnonmaa was made the official summer residence for the President of the Republic, after Finland had gained its independence five years earlier.

The municipalities of Merimasku, Rymättylä and Velkua were consolidated with Naantali on January 1, 2009.

The per capita tax income of the town is the second highest of all towns in Finland, and the highest in the province of Southwest Finland.

Name

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The name Naantali is the fennicised version of the Swedish name of the town, Nådendal. The Swedish name was given as a direct translation from the Latin Vallis Gratiae which literally means "The Valley of Grace".[1]

Tourism and points of interest

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The proximity of both Turku, the region's administrative centre and largest city, and of the archipelago both contribute to the area's popularity with tourists.

Other points of interest in the city include Moomin World, a theme park on the island of Kailo, and Naantali’s medieval convent stone church. The area also includes the official summer residence of the President of Finland, the Kultaranta estate which is located on the island of Luonnonmaa.[citation needed]

The Archipelago Sea boat traffic is handled by S/S Ukkopekka. Old steamship cruise Naantali-Turku-Naantali.

Naantali hosts an international music festival every June, and the traditional Sleepyhead Day carnival in July.


Culture

[edit]

Every July 27, Naantali celebrates the National Sleepy Head Day (Finnish: Unikeonpäivä; Swedish: Sjusovardagen). The old tradition is to throw a chosen "sleepy head", usually a Finnish celebrity, in the sea from the city's port at 8 a.m. The identity of the sleeper is kept secret until the event. People who are chosen have usually done something to the benefit of the city.[9][10][11][12]

Other industries

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In addition to tourism, the city's main industries are electricity production, oil refining, manufacturing, and services. The Port of Naantali is the third largest in Finland in terms of goods traffic, and the city is home to a power plant and an oil refinery owned by the government-controlled company Fortum and Neste.

International relations

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See also: List of twin towns and sister cities in Finland

Twin towns — Sister cities

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Naantali is twinned with:

Previously:

Notable people

[edit]
[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Naantali

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Naantali is a historic coastal town in , situated about 14 kilometers west of in the Varsinais-Suomi region, encompassing a land area of 312 square kilometers and an of approximately 1,000 islands along 1,000 kilometers of coastline. With a population of 20,312 as of June 2025, it is one of Finland's oldest municipalities, founded on August 23, 1443, when King granted a for the establishment of the Bridgettine convent Vallis Gratiae, which became the nucleus of the settlement. The town gained city status in 2009 following a municipal merger that expanded its island-rich territory, transforming it into a semi-urban area with a focus on maritime connectivity. Renowned as Finland's "sunshine town" and a resort destination, Naantali's economy thrives on , port activities, and wellness services, supported by about 1,600 local businesses and efficient sea and land transport links. Its medieval heritage is epitomized by the well-preserved Old Town, featuring colorful 18th- and 19th-century wooden houses, narrow cobblestone streets, cafes, galleries, and the Naantali Church, originally part of the convent complex dissolved during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. The town's spa tradition dates back to the early with the discovery of mineral springs in Viluluoto, evolving into a major industry by the and culminating in the modern Naantali Spa opened in 1984, which attracts visitors for health and relaxation. Naantali serves as a gateway to the Finnish archipelago, offering access to tranquil islands, nature trails, and outdoor activities, while cultural highlights include the annual Sleepyhead Day celebration since the late and the Moominworld theme park, drawing families to its whimsical attractions inspired by Tove Jansson's characters. Additionally, Kultaranta, the official summer residence of the since 1919, features a National Romantic-style villa and expansive gardens that symbolize the nation's executive tradition. The Port of Naantali further bolsters the local economy as a key hub for cargo, passenger ferries to , and maritime industries, contributing to sustainable development in the region.

Geography

Location and terrain

Naantali is situated in , at coordinates 60°28′N 22°02′E, approximately 16 km west of the city of . This positioning places it within the heart of the Finnish archipelago, where land and sea intermingle extensively. The municipality's administrative boundaries encompass a diverse array of coastal and island terrains, reflecting its role as a gateway to the broader region. The total surface area of Naantali is 688.25 km², comprising 312.59 km² of land, 3.86 km² of inland water, and 371.80 km² of sea, underscoring its predominantly maritime character. Much of this expanse consists of over 1,000 islands and islets, contributing to a fragmented, water-dominated that defines the area's geography. The terrain is primarily coastal and low-lying, with flat to gently rolling hills interspersed among forested areas and rocky outcrops, providing a setting for both mainland and island communities. Key natural features include prominent islands such as Luonnonmaa, which hosts Kultaranta, the official summer residence of the , featuring manicured gardens and a historic villa overlooking the sea. Naantali's location also borders the Turku Archipelago, adjacent to the Archipelago National Park, where protected waters and diverse ecosystems extend the municipality's natural boundaries. In 2009, the incorporation of the neighboring municipalities of Merimasku, Rymättylä, and Velkua expanded Naantali's territory, integrating additional island groups and enhancing its status as an extensive archipelagic municipality.

Climate

Naantali experiences a classified as Dfb under the Köppen system, characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters, with notable maritime influences from the that moderate extremes. This classification reflects the region's position in southwestern , where coastal proximity tempers continental severity, resulting in relatively mild conditions compared to inland areas. The city is often referred to as Finland's "sunshine town" due to its higher-than-average annual sunshine hours, totaling approximately 1,843 hours. Average temperatures highlight the seasonal contrast: summers are mild with July highs reaching 20–22°C, while winters are cold, featuring January lows of -5 to -10°C. Precipitation is moderate, averaging 600–700 mm annually, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year with slightly higher amounts in late summer and autumn. These patterns support a landscape where snow cover persists for about 80–100 days in winter, yet the influence of warm air masses occasionally leads to thaws. The Port of Naantali remains navigable year-round, supported by icebreaking services and the relatively mild conditions influenced by North Atlantic currents, ensuring operational conditions even in winter. Foggy conditions are common in the surrounding , particularly during transitional seasons, due to the interaction of cool sea air with warmer land surfaces, creating microclimates that enhance local humidity. Recent climate trends indicate milder winters since 2020, with the 2019/2020 season marking a record for warmth across much of , attributed to broader amplification effects. Coastal areas around Naantali support rich , including diverse , macroalgae, , and benthic species typical of the Baltic Sea's low-salinity environment, with over 1,000 zoobenthos species recorded regionally. However, these ecosystems face vulnerability to rising sea levels; projections from the Finnish Meteorological Institute suggest a relative sea level rise of 5–14 cm on the southern coast by 2050 under low- to medium-emission scenarios, potentially increasing flood risks and altering habitats.

History

Founding and medieval period

Naantali traces its origins to August 23, 1443, when King , ruler of the Swedish realm including , issued a authorizing the construction of a Bridgettine at the site now known as Vallis Gratiæ, or Valley of Grace. This establishment marked the formal founding of the settlement, initiated through donations of land by local nobility, including Lady Lucia Olofsdotter and her husband Henrik Klasson, who provided the Ailos estate in 1442 to support the new religious foundation. The convent adhered to the rule of , emphasizing contemplation, prayer, and communal labor, and quickly became a spiritual anchor in the , the only Bridgettine house in and one of six medieval monasteries in the region. The Bridgettine convent was constructed as one of Finland's earliest stone buildings, featuring a church inaugurated in 1462 that served as the heart of the complex, with surrounding structures for living quarters and workshops. Designed for a community of up to 60 choir nuns per the order's statutes, historical records from 1487 document 54 nuns residing there alongside 8 monks, 2 lay brothers, and 8 priest monks, reflecting a vibrant double monastery adapted to northern conditions. Economically, the convent drove local prosperity through pilgrimage—drawn by indulgences, relics of Saint Bridget, and feast days like Ad Vincula—while managing extensive estates worked by tenant farmers and exploiting fishing rights in the archipelago and Gulf of Bothnia. These activities, combined with market privileges for goods such as salt, hops, iron, and cloth, positioned the convent as a key node in regional exchange networks. As the flourished, the town of Naantali emerged around it in the mid-15th century, characterized by wooden houses and structures catering to pilgrims, traders, and laborers, with the settlement granted trading privileges akin to other Baltic ports. Its coastal position in the archipelago integrated Naantali into Hanseatic trade routes, facilitating commerce with centers like , , , and Novgorod, where the convent's products and tithes circulated alongside broader Baltic goods. This growth transformed Naantali from a isolated religious outpost into a modest urban center, supported by noble patronage and ecclesiastical oversight from the Vadstena motherhouse in . The convent's influence persisted after the confiscation of its properties in the mid-16th century (ca. 1554) amid the , when King Gustav I Vasa's policies led to the seizure of monastic lands; the community continued in reduced form, transitioning to with royal pensions, until the death of the last in 1577 and the final in 1591. Archaeological investigations, including excavations at the church site in 1996–1997, have uncovered 15th-century artifacts such as charred cereal grains, seeds, and remains indicative of medieval and consumption practices, underscoring the 's self-sustaining role. These findings, analyzed through (cal AD 1255–1805), reveal evidence of cultivated medicinal and , while the surviving church structure incorporates remnants of the original ruins, preserving tangible links to Naantali's medieval foundations.

Modern development and mergers

Following the in the mid-16th century, Naantali experienced a prolonged period of economic decline after the confiscation of its influential Bridgettine convent's properties in the 1550s, which had been a central hub for trade, pilgrimage, and regional administration; the community persisted until ca. 1591, but this loss led to stagnation that persisted for nearly three centuries, reducing the town to a modest and agricultural settlement. The town's revival began in the with the establishment of a sea bath and in 1863, which transformed Naantali into a sought-after health resort, drawing affluent visitors from across and to its coastal waters and setting for therapeutic treatments and leisure. This boom spurred modest industrialization, particularly in fisheries that supported local processing and trade, alongside emerging activities tied to maritime needs, laying the groundwork for economic diversification. In the , Naantali faced limited direct impacts from due to Finland's strategic position and the conflicts' focus on eastern borders, though the nation-wide wartime disruptions affected supply chains and local mobilization efforts. Post-war reconstruction fueled significant manufacturing growth, exemplified by the construction of the in 1957, which introduced large-scale industrial operations and boosted employment and port activity. A pivotal administrative change occurred on January 1, 2009, when Naantali merged with the neighboring municipalities of Merimasku, Rymättylä, and Velkua, expanding its population by approximately 33% to nearly 18,000 residents and increasing its land area from 61 km² to 312 km² (as of 2024), with a total area including water of 688 km², thereby enhancing its regional influence and resource base. Recent developments since 2020 have emphasized modernization and , including the closure of the aging in March 2021 to redirect focus toward greener initiatives, alongside electrification projects and the planning of a and facility, which received environmental permits in January 2025 to support Finland's national transition to sources. No major disruptions or events have marked the town in 2024 or 2025, allowing steady progress in these eco-friendly upgrades aligned with broader climate goals.

Etymology

Origin of the name

The name Naantali originates from the medieval Swedish "Nådendal," first documented in the 1440 letter of protection as "Nadhendaal" and subsequently in the 1443 charter issued by King , which authorized the founding of a Bridgettine in the area. This Swedish term is a of the Latin "Vallis Gratiæ," literally translating to " of Grace," a name chosen to evoke the spiritual mercy and sanctity associated with the convent's location in a sheltered valley. The Finnish form "Naantali" emerged as a phonetic of "Nådendal," reflecting the gradual fennicization of Swedish place names during Finland's linguistic evolution under Swedish rule and later Russian administration. By the , amid the Finnish national romantic movement, "Naantali" had become the predominant name, incorporating typical Finnish suffixes while preserving the core meaning. Early historical records, including the 1440 letter of protection for the , primarily employed Latin and Swedish variants, with no significant alternative names or etymological disputes recorded. In contemporary usage, the name's graceful connotations continue to underpin Naantali's identity as a tranquil coastal retreat, enhancing its appeal in promotion as a destination embodying serenity and historical charm.

Historical linguistic variations

The earliest documented form of Naantali's name appears in as the medieval Swedish "Nadhendaal," a direct of the Latin convent name Vallis Gratiae (Valley of Grace or ), granted in a letter of by the Swedish crown for the Brigittine . By the town's official founding in 1443, issued by King , the Swedish variant was used, reflecting the linguistic context in medieval ; the Finnish adaptation "Naantali" developed later. In the , following the abbey's closure in 1591 amid the , surviving Latin records often invoked connections to the mother house at through terms like Vadstenensis, denoting the Vadstena customary or style in conventual documentation. During the 19th century, as Finland transitioned from Swedish administrative dominance to greater promotion of Finnish under Russian rule, the name "Naantali" gained prominence in secular contexts, such as the development of the town's facilities from the onward, while the Swedish "Nådendal" (a modernized spelling of "Nadhendaal") persisted in official bilingual records. This duality continued into the mid-20th century, with "Nådendal" retained in formal Swedish-language usage until post-World War II linguistic reforms emphasized Finnish primacy in monolingual-majority areas, though both names remain in use today, reflecting 's bilingual national context, with the predominant in the monolingual Finnish-speaking municipality. Early Finnish texts occasionally featured minor orthographic variations, such as "Naantal," adapting the Swedish form phonetically without altering its core meaning. Unlike some northern Finnish locales, Naantali's name shows no influences from indigenous , rooted instead in the Baltic Sea region's Swedish-Finnish linguistic interplay. These variations underscore Naantali's embodiment of Finland's linguistic duality, particularly after in 1917, when efforts to balance Finnish with Swedish minority heritage shaped place-name policies.

Demographics

As of June 30, 2025, Naantali's population stood at 20,312 residents. The municipality spans a land area of 312.59 km², yielding a population density of approximately 65 inhabitants per km². Naantali has experienced steady population growth over the decades, rising from around 10,000 in 1950 to 19,427 by 2020, with a notable surge following the 2009 municipal mergers that incorporated Rymättylä, Merimasku, and Velkua. Annual growth rates averaged 0.5-1% in the years leading up to 2020, driven primarily by net migration, though this stabilized somewhat after the COVID-19 pandemic as mobility patterns shifted. The post-merger expansion significantly boosted the population base, contributing to a more than 10% increase between 2000 and 2010 alone. Looking ahead, population projections indicate Naantali will reach approximately 21,000 residents by 2030, supported by inflows from tourism-related opportunities and trends that attract residents to the area's coastal lifestyle. The faces an aging demographic profile, with a age of 43 years, reflecting broader national patterns of longer life expectancies and lower birth rates. Within Naantali, the population distribution shows about 70% residing in urban areas centered on the core , while the remaining 30% live in rural island villages across the . Recent data from 2024-2025 highlights minor net from the adjacent region, accounting for much of the half-year growth of 183 persons observed in early 2025.
YearPopulationAnnual Growth Rate (%)
1950~10,000-
200016,743-
201018,8071.2
202019,4270.7
202520,3120.9
This table illustrates key historical milestones, with data sourced from official records.

Ethnic and linguistic composition

Naantali's linguistic composition reflects Finland's bilingual framework, with Finnish as the dominant language. As of 2024, approximately 94.5% of residents speak Finnish as their mother tongue, 1.3% speak Swedish, and 4.2% speak other languages, including English, Russian, and Estonian. This distribution aligns with national trends but shows a lower proportion of Swedish speakers compared to the country's 5.2% average, though the town's coastal location preserves bilingual administrative practices. Ethnically, the population is overwhelmingly Finnish, comprising over 97% Finnish citizens, with a small Swedish-Finnish community integrated through shared . Recent has introduced modest diversity, with about 3.3% born in other European countries and 1.4% from elsewhere, primarily nationals arriving post-2020 for work or family reasons. There are no significant indigenous groups, such as the Sámi, in Naantali. The town's cultural makeup bears strong Swedish influences from its medieval founding under Swedish rule, evident in historical place names like Nådendal and traditions tied to the former Birgittine convent. Recent demographic shifts include a slight rise in multilingual residents, driven by and service sector jobs, with other-language speakers increasing by around 1% since 2020 according to 2024 data. National integration programs, including language courses and employment support, assist newcomers in Naantali through local services coordinated with regional authorities.

Economy

Key industries

Naantali's economy is anchored in , production, and services, which together form the backbone of its non-tourism sectors. employs approximately 29% of the local workforce, focusing on specialized production such as lubricants at ExxonMobil's facility, at DuPont's site, and mechanics and components at Stera Technologies. Other notable contributors include Naantali Steel Service Centre for metal processing and Telatek for industrial machinery services, supporting sectors like , HVAC, and . These activities leverage the city's industrial zones, such as Luolala and Navire, fostering a robust production base. The energy sector plays a pivotal role, with Turun Seudun Energiantuotanto (TSE) operating the Naantali power plant complex, including biomass and combined heat and power facilities upgraded post-2020 for sustainable output. The Neste Naantali terminal handles and distributes oil products, supporting regional logistics. Recent advancements emphasize green technologies, including the planned 2025 Green North Energy project for green ammonia production, expected to start operations in 2026, and the planned Liquid Wind e-methanol facility adjacent to the Naantali 4 plant, with environmental assessment underway since January 2025, funded through EU sustainability initiatives to enhance biogenic CO2 utilization and renewable energy integration. These developments align with Naantali's goals to reduce CO2 emissions to 3.96 tons per resident by 2025. Services dominate at around 67% of the total workforce, encompassing , , and that complement industrial outputs. Overall, the labor force stands at approximately 9,290, with about 8,500 employed across sectors; accounts for roughly 2,700 jobs, while energy and related services support around 2,000 positions. As of June 2024, the rate was 7.9%, projected to decrease slightly in coming years, remaining below the Varsinais-Suomi regional average. Industries contribute approximately 40% to the local economy's GDP, bolstered by tax revenues of €49.9 million in 2025—equating to over €2,495 , exceeding the national municipal average—and investments in cleantech clusters.

Port and infrastructure

The Port of Naantali serves as Finland's fourth-largest universal cargo and fourth-largest ferry for trucks and trailers, managing approximately 7–8 million tons of cargo annually, of which 80% constitutes foreign traffic. Primarily handling liquid and dry bulk cargoes such as , , , fertilizers, feed stuffs, and recycling materials, alongside ferry goods, the facilitates over 2,000 vessel calls each year and supports more than 50% of truck and trailer shipments between and . It functions as a vital maritime gateway, with daily RoRo/RoPax services operated by connecting to via the Naantali–Långnäs–Kapellskär route, which includes a stop in . Passenger traffic on this route has seen substantial growth, more than doubling in the year leading up to early 2025, driven by enhanced vessel capacity and seasonal demand. Naantali's transportation integrates , rail, and air links to enhance regional connectivity. The connects to via Regional Road 110 (Seututie 110), a key route spanning about 16 km that supports efficient freight and passenger movement. Rail access is available to the , aligning with broader Scandinavian-Mediterranean Corridor developments under the EU's TEN-T network, though no direct high-speed extensions to Naantali are currently prioritized. , located roughly 20 km away, provides air access with distances of about 19 km, facilitating transfers for both cargo logistics and travelers. Recent infrastructure upgrades emphasize , including to a depth of 15.3 meters, construction of a new RoRo berth, expansion of truck and trailer areas, and installation of connections introduced around 2023 to enable emission-free vessel operations during port calls. Complementing these, the local bus network under the Föli system offers frequent services, such as lines 6 and 7, linking Naantali to , Raisio, , and the in approximately 30–40 minutes. Extensive bike paths traverse the area, highlighted by the Small Archipelago Trail—a 100+ km route from Naantali through islands like Seili to Nagu and , promoting eco-friendly mobility in the coastal environment. Economically, the port underpins regional employment and growth, with its operations integral to sectors amid -driven mandates. It has bolstered cargo initiatives, including ' 2025 launch of a low-emission " lane" on the Naantali–Kapellskär route using 5 MWh battery-hybrid RoPax ships for fully electric shipments, responding to the shipping sector's inclusion in the Emissions Trading System (ETS) from 2024. This shift supports rising demand for low-carbon transport, contributing to Naantali's role in Finland's transition.

Tourism and culture

Major attractions

One of Naantali's premier attractions is , a theme park situated on the island of Kailo adjacent to the old town, which opened in 1993 with the endorsement of Finnish-Swedish author . The park brings Jansson's beloved Moomin characters to life through immersive experiences, including character encounters, theatrical performances, and exploratory paths like Toffle's Path, emphasizing themes of family, adventure, and environmental harmony without traditional amusement rides. It has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, with figures around 400,000 in peak years prior to 2020, and continues to recover post-pandemic, bolstered by its unique blend of fairytale storytelling and natural surroundings. The historic Old Town of Naantali, dating back to the , enchants visitors with its preserved cobblestone streets lined by colorful wooden houses that reflect the town's maritime heritage. At its heart stands Naantali Church, constructed between the 1460s and 1480s as the chapel for a Bridgettine convent founded in 1443, serving as the sole surviving remnant of that medieval complex and Finland's second-largest medieval stone church after . Nearby, Kultaranta offers a glimpse into presidential history; this granite villa on Luonnonmaa island, designed by architect Lars Sonck and completed in 1916, became Finland's official summer residence in 1922, while its expansive 16-hectare gardens—featuring formal flower beds, fountains, and pergolas—are open to the public for serene strolls. Naantali's natural allure enhances its appeal, with the surrounding providing extensive trails such as the ' Meditation Trail and the 3.8-kilometer Henttula Nature Trail on Velkua island, winding through forests and coastal landscapes ideal for and . Beaches like those along the Naantali offer opportunities for swimming and relaxation amid the Baltic Sea's islands. The town's tradition, rooted in the early with the discovery of mineral-rich springs, gained prominence in through the introduction of clay treatments at Ailostenniemi, evolving into a wellness hub that peaked in popularity during the –. Naantali's coastal position amplifies these sites, integrating urban charm with accessible maritime exploration. In recent years, has seen post-2020 enhancements, including expanded outdoor areas and themed integrations like the 2024 Moomin Aphorism Trail in the nearby Old Town and harbor, featuring quotes from Jansson's to deepen visitor immersion.

Events and traditions

One of Naantali's most distinctive traditions is Sleepyhead Day, celebrated annually on July 27, which draws on the legend of the Seven Sleepers of and has roots in the town's dating back to at least the 1880s. The event begins at dawn with the selection of a as the "Official Sleepyhead of the Year," who is playfully thrown into the sea from the harbor at 7 a.m. to symbolize awakening from laziness, a custom formalized in the late 1950s and expanded into a multi-day by the 1970s. Activities throughout the day include music, markets, and family-friendly entertainment across the old town, evolving from earlier 19th-century practices of noisy awakenings and evening parties at local spas to a peaceful, tourism-oriented celebration that highlights Naantali's coastal heritage. The Naantali Music Festival, founded in 1980 by cellist Arto Noras, is a prominent annual event held in June, featuring performances by international artists in historic venues like the Naantali Church and island settings such as Seili. The 2025 edition, marking the festival's 45th season from June 3 to 14, includes premieres like composer Aulis Sallinen's new work Shaka – Warrior King and emphasizes classical repertoire in intimate coastal surroundings, contributing to the town's reputation for cultural vibrancy post-pandemic. Naantali also upholds seasonal Finnish customs that foster community ties, such as on , which feature flag-raising ceremonies, live music, dance, and bonfires lit along the shores, often visible from scenic spots like Kuparivuori hill. During the winter holiday season, markets and lights illuminate the old town, offering local foods, crafts, and festive gatherings that blend tradition with holiday cheer. These events, alongside workshops showcasing regional artisanal skills, reinforce Naantali's identity as Finland's "sunshine town," promoting its sunny climate and welcoming atmosphere year-round.

Government and international relations

Local administration

Naantali's local administration is governed by a comprising 43 members, elected every four years through municipal elections, serving as the highest in the . The executive is provided by the , currently Laura Leppänen, who oversees daily operations and implements council decisions. As part of Finland's region (Varsinais-Suomi), Naantali's governance aligns with national municipal frameworks while addressing local priorities. Key municipal policies emphasize , , and healthcare integration. The pursues environmental goals in line with Finland's national carbon neutrality target by 2035, focusing on reducing emissions through local initiatives such as energy-efficient and waste reduction programs. services include basic and upper secondary schools, such as Naantali Upper Secondary School with approximately 300 students, supporting the needs of the approximately 20,300 residents (as of June 2025). Healthcare is delivered via regional hubs under the Wellbeing Services County of (Varha), which manages at the local health station in Naantali. Recent governance remains stable under a led by major parties including the and others, with no reported major scandals. The 2025 municipal budget prioritizes investments in tourism infrastructure, including enhancements to public facilities and transport links to support the city's resort economy. Essential services include coordinated by Lounais-Suomen Jätehuolto Oy, a regional company owned by 18 municipalities that handles collection, recycling, and advisory for households. Public libraries, operated by the city, feature a main in the town and four local branches, offering books, digital resources, and community programs. Digital services have expanded since 2020, with online portals for resident services, permit applications, and virtual library access integrated into the municipal website to improve accessibility.

Twin towns and sister cities

Naantali has established friendship partnerships, known as ystävyyyskaupungit, with four municipalities in the to promote cross-border cooperation, cultural understanding, and youth engagement. These relationships facilitate periodic gatherings of representatives, such as the 2013 Nordic sister town meeting in Naantali, which focused on the town's , children's programs, and shared regional traditions. The partnerships also support promotions and occasional joint initiatives, including historical collaborations like the post-war construction of a local with .) In 2022, Naantali terminated its friendship agreement with Kirovsk, , in response to 's of , reflecting a broader trend among Finnish municipalities to suspend ties with Russian partners. The current partnerships are summarized below:
MunicipalityCountryYear EstablishedPartnership Focus
1969Cultural exchanges, historical ties, and community development projects.
NordfynNot specifiedNordic regional cooperation and youth programs.
SvelvikNot specifiedEducational exchanges and local governance collaboration.
VesturbyggðNot specifiedCultural and environmental initiatives.
These agreements occasionally incorporate port-related exchanges, aligning with Naantali's maritime infrastructure to support and discussions.

Notable people

References

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  2. https://citypopulation.de/en/finland/admin/varsinais_suomi/529__naantali/
  3. https://visitnaantali.com/en/stories-from-naantali-the-history-of-naantali/
  4. https://sites.utu.fi/bre/naantali-a-gateway-to-the-archipelago/
  5. https://www.visitfinland.com/en/product/1b8eae0e-49b5-4426-9f34-088d342cad50/old-town-of-naantali/
  6. https://www.explorearchipelago.fi/finnish-archipelago/guides/get-charmed-by-naantali
  7. https://www.naantali.fi/en/nr-1-naantali-old-resort-and-spa-town
  8. https://www.explorearchipelago.fi/finnish-archipelago/naantali/naantalis-neighbouring-islands
  9. https://yle.fi/a/3-6751310
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  31. https://www.frommers.com/destinations/naantali/
  32. https://fennica.pohjoiseen.fi/fi/2020/03/27/naantali-part1/
  33. https://www.thephotorecord.org/home/men-naantali
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  36. https://portofnaantali.fi/en/history-stories/big-industry-finds-the-port-of-naantali/
  37. https://www.cruisemapper.com/ports/naantali-port-16348
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  39. https://www.esitteemme.fi/portofnaantali/WebView/0
  40. https://www.fingridlehti.fi/en/hydrogen-paves-the-way-towards-the-future-energy-market/
  41. https://www.both2nia.com/en/news/naantali-hydrogen-plant-receives-environmental-permits
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  46. https://biveros.com/naantali-finland/
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  49. https://kotoutuminen.fi/en/get-to-know-the-actors
  50. https://portofnaantali.fi/en/contact/local-business/
  51. https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-profiles.stera_technologies_oy.1f847af927c9f65413a12cbb7a226015.html
  52. https://products.tatasteelnederland.com/service-centres/naantali
  53. https://telatek.fi/en/company/
  54. https://www.valmet.com/insights/articles/automation/smart-energy-solutions-boost-tse-power-plants-performance/
  55. https://neste.com/news/neste-has-concluded-co-operation-negotiations-concerning-the-restructuring-of-its-refinery-operations-in-finland-refining-to-end-in-naantali-operations-to-be-developed-in-porvoo
  56. https://balticseah2valley.eu/the-future-of-green-ammonia-case-green-north-energy/
  57. https://www.liquidwind.com/news/liquid-wind-partners-with-turun-seudun-energiantuotanto-oy-for-the-establishment-of-an-efuel-facility-in-finland
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  59. https://www.tyollisyyskatsaus.fi/varsinais-suomi.aspx
  60. https://www.finnlines.com/news-and-press-releases/finnlines-finncanopus-has-been-operating-for-a-year-on-the-route-between-finland-and-sweden-passenger-figures-have-doubled/
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  65. https://www.foli.fi/fi/naantali
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  70. https://www.moominworld.fi/moominworld/
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