The Imatrankoski Rapids 1.8.2007

Finland’s largest rapids were created 4000-5000 years ago, as a result of the waters of Saimaa breaking trough the Salpausselkä ridge.

The Imatrankoski Rapids have been attracting visitors for over 200 years. As early as 1772, the Russian Empress Catherine the Great and her retinue visited the Rapids. The Imatrankoski Rapids is Finland's first ever tourist attraction.

The Rapids were dammed in order to produce electricity, and thus the Imatra Power Plant was inaugurated in 1929. People came to marvel at the dried-up river bed which still remains a unique sight with its blocks of granite.

However, today's crowds come to admire the daily Rapids shows which are organised in summer.

Lähde: http://www.gosaimaa.fi