Constructed in 2002, the glass-and-steel 'Ilmarinen' building of the Embassy of Finland is designed to resemble a ship – its name recalls the hero of the Finnish epic Kalevala and the ship named after him, the Ilmarinen, which sank in 1941.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Canberra attractions

1. United States Embassy

0.31 MILES

The US Embassy, constructed 1942–48, is the oldest embassy in Yarralumla, with the lease signed in 1941. It's built in a colonial Georgian style most…

2. High Commission of India

0.45 MILES

The design of the elegant, symmetrical Indian High Commission was inspired by classical Mughal and Hindu architecture. The grounds include a moat and…

3. High Commission of Papua New Guinea

0.46 MILES

One of the most interesting embassies in Canberra, the High Commission of Papua New Guinea building is based on the design of a Haus Tambaran, a…

4. Lennox Gardens

0.48 MILES

These perfectly picnickable gardens on the shore of Lake Burley Griffin are home to a couple of lovely small sights, including the Canberra Nara Peace…

5. Embassy of Japan

0.49 MILES

The white walls and black beams of the elegant embassy building and adjacent Ambassador's Residence are reminiscent of traditional Japanese design. The…

6. Australian Parliament House

0.63 MILES

Built in 1988, Australia's national parliament building is a graceful and deeply symbolic piece of architecture. Sitting atop Capital Hill, the building…

7. National Museum of Australia

0.76 MILES

As well as telling Australia's national story, this museum hosts blockbuster touring exhibitions (admission prices vary), which often outpoint the…

8. Museum of Australian Democracy

0.81 MILES

The seat of government from 1927 to 1988, this elegantly proportioned building offers visitors a taste of the political past. Displays cover Australian…