Vyborg is on the ancient road between Helsinki and St Petersburg. It is a perfect location for historical films (26 have been shot here), with its ancient Swedish fortress (now a museum), the remnants of huge granite walls and the century-old Nordic-style architecture. Founded by ancient Russians, the city was captured by the Swedes 700 years ago. In the 18th century it came under Finnish jurisdiction. Since the early 1940s it has been Russian territory.
Russian and Finnish languages mix freely in the streets. Vyborg, once a Soviet closed city, is now a favourite stopping-off point for Russian truck drivers and Finnish tourists.
Vyborg is an ideal place for the quiet life but is well-suited to host a film festival.
