Do you currently live in Finland? Does your family tree have Finnish roots? Are you fascinated by Finnish culture and customs? Do you want your daughter to grow up in a household with Finnish traditions?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, then you’re probably looking for some unique Finnish girl names to give your daughter when she arrives. Don’t worry, we have plenty of ideas to share with you!
But you can also do your own research by looking at up-to-date statistics shared publicly by Finland’s national open data portal and through the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) of Finland.
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For example, the national open data portal lists Maria, Helena, Anneli, Johanna, Kaarina, and Hannele as the five most popular Finnish girl names in the country today. Nearly 200,000 women are named Maria.
As for 2023, the five most popular Finnish girl names for newborn babies were Aurora, Maria, Sofia, Olivia, and Emilia. Aurora was the only one name that was given to at least 1,000 baby girls in 2023.
Below, we’re going to take a deeper dive into the ever-evolving roster of Finnish girl names, including names with Finnish origins and names that are inspired by cities, celebrities, and leaders in Finland.
Finnish Girl Names With Finnish Origins
Finland’s origins trace back to early hunter-gatherers who settled the region after the Ice Age. It came under Swedish rule in the 12th century, followed by Russian control in 1809 before gaining independence.
Finland declared independence from Russia in 1917, survived internal conflict and wars with the Soviet Union, and emerged as a neutral, developed nation, eventually joining the European Union (EU) in 1995.
Today, Finland is home to more than 5.6 million people, and about 90% of those people speak Finnish as their first language. You can also find some Finnish-speaking minorities in Sweden, Norway, and Russia.
Some of my favorite examples of Finnish girl names with Finnish origins include Suomi, which literally translates to Finland in the Finnish language, and Vauva, which is the Finnish word for “newborn baby.”
Let’s take a look at 10 other prime examples of Finnish girl names derived from the Finnish language.
10. Löyly
Origin: Löyly is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Löyly refers to the steam or spirit that rises from a sauna when water is thrown on hot stones, a deeply cultural and symbolic term in Finland.
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Laila, Lilja, Loviisa, Leila, Laina, Linnea, Laura, Lumikki, Lyydia, Lumi.
9. Hannele
Origin: Hannele is of Finnish origin, though it has Hebrew roots.
Derivation/Meaning: Hannele is a Finnish variant of the name Hannah, which comes from the Hebrew name “Channah,” meaning “grace” or “favor.”
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Hannu, Helena, Hilma, Hilda, Heini, Heta, Heini, Helvi, Hely, Hilkka.
8. Marjatta
Origin: Marjatta is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Marjatta is derived from the Finnish word “marja,” meaning “berry.” In Finnish folklore, it is also the name of a character in the national epic, Kalevala.
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Marita, Mari, Marjaana, Marjo, Marjukka, Marleena, Maarit, Merja, Marja, Maija.
7. Eevi
Origin: Eevi is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Eevi is a Finnish variant of the name Eve, which comes from the Hebrew name “Chavah,” meaning “life” or “living.”
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Eeva, Eira, Eini, Elina, Eila, Elsa, Enni, Eerika, Eini, Erja.
6. Ilona
Origin: Ilona is of Finnish and Hungarian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Ilona is derived from the Finnish word “ilo,” meaning “joy” or “happiness.” It is also a form of the name Helen in Hungarian.
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Iida, Inka, Ira, Irma, Inari, Isa, Ilmi, Ines, Inkeri, Iisa.
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5. Kaarina
Origin: Kaarina is of Finnish origin, with roots in the name Catherine.
Derivation/Meaning: Kaarina is a Finnish form of Catherine, which comes from the Greek “Aikaterine,” meaning “pure.”
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Karoliina, Kristiina, Katariina, Kaija, Kirsti, Karina, Kaisa, Kyllikki, Katja, Kiira.
4. Inkeri
Origin: Inkeri is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Inkeri is derived from the name of the Ingrian people, who lived in a region between Finland and Russia. It is also a Finnish form of Ingrid, which means “beautiful” or “beloved.”
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Inari, Iina, Inka, Ilmi, Iira, Iida, Ines, Isa, Inga, Iiris.
3. Orvokki
Origin: Orvokki is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Orvokki is derived from the Finnish word for “violet,” which refers to the flower symbolizing modesty and virtue.
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Olivia, Oili, Orvokki, Oiliina, Oona, Onerva, Olli, Olavi, Oili, Oiva.
2. Lumi
Origin: Lumi is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Lumi is the Finnish word for “snow,” evoking purity and the beauty of winter.
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Lumikki, Leena, Laila, Liisa, Linnea, Lilja, Leila, Lumiina, Lyydia, Loviisa.
1. Siiri
Origin: Siiri is of Finnish origin, derived from a Germanic name.
Derivation/Meaning: Siiri is the Finnish form of Sigrid, a name of Old Norse origin meaning “victory” and “beautiful” or “fair.”
Similar Finnish Girl Names: Sini, Salla, Saana, Satu, Silja, Selja, Senja, Sirpa, Sinikka, Sofia.
Finnish Girl Names Inspired By Finnish Leaders
Finland’s government operates as a parliamentary republic with an emphasis on democracy and the rule of law. It has three main branches: executive, legislative, and judiciary, ensuring a separation of powers.
Finland has a president who is the head of state, primarily responsible for foreign policy and serving as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Only one woman has ever been elected as Finland’s president.
The prime minister is the head of government and holds most executive authority. They are elected by the Parliament (Eduskunta) and appointed by the president. Three women have served as Prime Minister.
Furthermore, the prime minister leads the Council of State (cabinet), which is responsible for day-to-day governance, including implementing laws, setting domestic policies, and managing the economy.
Let’s take a look at Finnish girl names inspired by former and current female leaders in Finland.
10. Tarja (Tarja Halonen)
Origin: Tarja is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Tarja is derived from the name Daria, which has Persian roots meaning “wealth” or “possessor.” It became popular in Finland due to its short, strong sound and unique identity.
Significance: Tarja Halonen was Finland’s first female president, serving from 2000 to 2012. Known for her advocacy on human rights, gender equality, and social justice, she played a key role in modernizing Finland’s global image. Prior to her presidency, she held several ministerial roles, including Minister for Foreign Affairs.
9. Anneli (Anneli Jäätteenmäki)
Origin: Anneli is of Finnish and Germanic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Anneli is derived from the name Anna, which originates from the Hebrew name Channah, meaning “grace” or “favor.” In Finland, the -li suffix was added to form a more endearing and affectionate variation of Anna.
Significance: Anneli Jäätteenmäki became Finland’s first female prime minister in 2003, though her tenure lasted only a few months due to a political scandal involving leaked documents. She was a member of the Centre Party and previously served as Minister of Justice. Despite the brief prime ministership, she later had a long career as a Member of the European Parliament.
8. Mari (Mari Kiviniemi)
Origin: Mari is of Hebrew origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Mari is derived from the name Mary, which comes from the Hebrew name Miryam, meaning “beloved” or “wished-for child.” Mari is a common variant in several cultures, including Finnish, Estonian, and Japanese.
Significance: Mari Kiviniemi served as the Prime Minister of Finland from 2010 to 2011, becoming the second woman to hold this position. A member of the Centre Party, she also held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Public Administration and Local Government. After her time as prime minister, Kiviniemi went on to serve as the Deputy Secretary-General of the OECD.
7. Sanna (Sanna Marin)
Origin: Sanna is of Hebrew and Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: The name Sanna is a diminutive form of Susanna, which is derived from the Hebrew word Shoshannah, meaning “lily” or “rose.” It is a popular name in Finland and other Nordic countries.
Significance: Sanna Marin became Finland’s prime minister in 2019 at the age of 34, making her one of the world’s youngest heads of government. As a member of the Social Democratic Party, she leads a coalition government and is known for her progressive policies on climate change, social welfare, and gender equality. Marin gained international recognition for her leadership style, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
6. Miina (Miina Sillanpää)
Origin: Miina is of Finnish and Germanic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Miina is a diminutive of the name Wilhelmina, which comes from the Germanic elements wil (will or desire) and helm (protection). In Finland, it’s used as a standalone name.
Significance: Miina Sillanpää was a pioneering Finnish politician and social reformer, becoming Finland’s first female minister in 1926. As a champion of workers’ rights and women’s suffrage, she played a crucial role in advocating for social welfare policies, particularly for women and children. Her legacy as a trailblazer in Finnish politics endures through her contributions to social justice.
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5. Riikka (Riikka Purra)
Origin: Rikka is of Finnish and Germanic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Rikka is derived from the name Frederika, which has German roots, meaning “peaceful ruler.” It has been shortened in Finland to create this unique form.
Significance: Riikka Purra is the leader of the Finns Party, a right-wing populist party in Finland, having taken on the role in 2021. She is known for her strong stance on immigration, law and order, and national identity. Purra has been a Member of Parliament since 2019 and has played a significant role in shaping the party’s policies and public image.
4. Sari (Sari Essayah)
Origin: Sari is of Hebrew and Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Sari is a Finnish form of the name Sarah, which originates from Hebrew and means “princess.” It’s a common and beloved name in Finland.
Significance: Sari Essayah is a Finnish politician and former Olympic race walker, representing the Christian Democrats. She has served as a Member of Parliament and a Member of the European Parliament, advocating for conservative values, religious freedom, and human rights. Essayah’s political career focuses on social and ethical issues, along with sports-related legislation.
3. Elina (Elina Valtonen)
Origin: Elina is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Elina is a variant of Helen, which comes from the Greek name Helene, meaning “torch” or “light.” It’s a popular name across Finland, Sweden, and other European countries.
Significance: Elina Valtonen is a Finnish politician from the National Coalition Party, known for her work in economic and foreign policy. She was elected to the Finnish Parliament in 2019 and has been an advocate for digitalization, economic growth, and security issues. Valtonen also has a background in finance, which influences her policy perspectives.
2. Kaisa (Kaisa Juuso)
Origin: Kaisa is of Finnish and Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Kaisa is derived from the name Katherine, which comes from the Greek word katharos, meaning “pure.” It is commonly used in Finland as a short, simple variant.
Significance: Kaisa Juuso is a member of the Finnish Parliament representing the Finns Party. She is known for her focus on issues related to health care, elderly care, and regional development, particularly advocating for rural areas. Juuso emphasizes the importance of maintaining Finland’s cultural heritage and national security.
1. Lulu (Lulu Ranne)
Origin: Lulu is of Arabic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Lulu is derived from the Arabic word lū’lu’, meaning “pearl.” It’s used as a playful and affectionate name in various cultures.
Significance: Lulu Ranne is a Finnish politician affiliated with the Finns Party, elected to the Parliament in 2019. She has a background in engineering and focuses on economic policy, infrastructure, and immigration issues. Ranne is a vocal proponent of fiscal conservatism and has been involved in debates around Finland’s immigration and EU policies.
Finnish Girl Names Inspired By Finnish Celebrities
Finnish celebrities play a vital role in promoting and spreading Finnish culture both domestically and internationally, with artists, musicians, actors, and athletes often serving as cultural ambassadors.
Together, they help showcase Finland’s rich heritage, unique traditions, and contemporary innovations with the rest of the world. And they show everyone just how unique the country of Finland really is.
Musicians like Saara Aalto and Alma have gained international recognition in recent years, while athletes like cross-country skier Krista Pärmäkoski and figure skater Kiira Korpi serve as role models for the youth.
Let’s take a look at some unique Finnish girl names inspired by some of Finland’s most influential women.
10. Enni (Enni Rukajärvi)
Origin: Enni is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Enni is a diminutive of the name Henrietta, which comes from the Germanic name Heimirich, meaning “home ruler.” It’s a modern and concise form used in Finland.
Significance: Enni Rukajärvi is a Finnish professional snowboarder known for her success in slopestyle and big air competitions. She has won multiple medals at the Winter X Games and earned a silver medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Rukajärvi is celebrated for her technical skill and has been a trailblazer for Finnish women in snowboarding.
9. Armi (Armi Ratia)
Origin: Armi is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Armi is derived from the Finnish word for “army” or “warrior.” It is also used as a shortened form of names like Armida or Armina.
Significance: Armi Ratia was the visionary founder of the iconic Finnish design company Marimekko, established in 1951. She revolutionized fashion and home design with bold patterns, particularly Marimekko’s signature Unikko print. Ratia’s influence extended beyond fashion, as she played a key role in shaping Finnish modern design on the global stage.
8. Awak (Awak Kuier)
Origin: Awak is of Sudanese and Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Awak is a traditional Sudanese name, meaning “dawn” or “beginning of light.” It is also found in some Finnish cultures.
Significance: Awak Kuier is a Finnish-South Sudanese professional basketball player who made history as the first Finnish player drafted into the WNBA, joining the Dallas Wings in 2021. Standing at 6’6″, she is known for her athleticism, versatility, and shot-blocking ability. Kuier represents a new generation of Finnish athletes achieving international recognition in basketball.
7. Helene (Helene Schjerfbeck)
Origin: Helene is of Greek origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Helene is derived from the Greek name Helene, meaning “torch” or “light.” It’s a classic name with a long history of use in Europe.
Significance: Helene Schjerfbeck was one of Finland’s most celebrated artists, renowned for her unique modernist style, particularly in portraiture. Her work spans realism to more abstract forms, and she gained international acclaim for her deeply introspective self-portraits. Schjerfbeck’s influence on Finnish and European art endures, with her pieces being exhibited in major galleries worldwide.
6. Minna (Minna Canth)
Origin: Minna is of Germanic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Minna is a shortened form of Wilhelmina, which comes from the Germanic elements wil (will or desire) and helm (protection). It’s widely used in Finland and Germany.
Significance: Minna Canth was a pioneering Finnish writer, playwright, and social activist who advocated for women’s rights and social equality in the late 19th century. She is regarded as one of Finland’s most influential literary figures, particularly for addressing social issues such as gender inequality and poverty in her works. Canth was also the first woman in Finland to receive her own national flag day.
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5. Maryan (Maryan Adbulkarim)
Origin: Maryan is of Hebrew and Arabic origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Maryan is derived from Mary or Mariam, which comes from the Hebrew Miryam, meaning “beloved” or “wished-for child.” It’s a common name in both Arabic and European cultures.
Significance: Maryan Abdulkarim is a Finnish-Somali writer, activist, and public speaker known for her work on human rights, feminism, and social justice. She has been a prominent voice in discussions about racial and gender equality in Finland and regularly contributes to public debates through media and writing. Abdulkarim is recognized for challenging societal norms and advocating for marginalized communities.
4. Meeri (Meeri Koutaniemi)
Origin: Meeri is of Finnish and Estonian origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Meeri is a diminutive of Maria, which is of Hebrew origin, meaning “beloved” or “wished-for child.” In Finnish and Estonian, it’s used as an affectionate form of Maria.
Significance: Meeri Koutaniemi is an award-winning Finnish photojournalist and documentary photographer whose work focuses on human rights, culture, and social justice. She has captured powerful images from around the world, documenting stories of resilience, survival, and inequality. Koutaniemi’s photography has been featured in numerous international publications, and she is celebrated for her humanitarian approach.
3. Kaija (Kaija Saariaho)
Origin: Kaija is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Kaija is derived from the name Katherine, which comes from the Greek katharos, meaning “pure.” It is a popular short form of the name in Finland.
Significance: Kaija Saariaho was a globally acclaimed Finnish composer, known for her innovative works in contemporary classical music. Her compositions often blend electronic elements with orchestral textures, creating immersive soundscapes. Saariaho’s operas, particularly L’Amour de loin, have received widespread acclaim, making her one of the most influential modern composers of her time.
2. Kuusela (Armi Kuusela)
Origin: Kuusela is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Kuusela is a Finnish name meaning “grove” or “small forest.” It has nature-related roots and evokes images of peaceful Finnish landscapes.
Significance: Armi Kuusela made history in 1952 as the first-ever Miss Universe, bringing global attention to Finland. After her win, she became a cultural ambassador, traveling the world and later marrying a Filipino businessman. Kuusela’s legacy as a beauty queen and international icon has remained a significant part of Finnish pop culture.
1. Marita (Marita Lindahl)
Origin: Marita is of Spanish and Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Marita is derived from Maria, which originates from the Hebrew name Miryam, meaning “beloved” or “wished-for child.” It has been adapted into various cultures, particularly in Spain and Finland.
Significance: Marita Lindahl was a Finnish model who won the Miss World title in 1957, becoming the first Finn to achieve this honor. Her success on the international stage brought global recognition to Finland’s beauty pageant contestants. After her reign, Lindahl led a relatively private life, but her win left a lasting mark on Finland’s participation in international pageants.
Finnish Girl Names Inspired By Towns & Cities in Finland
Finland is a country located in Northern Europe. It’s bordered by Norway to the north, Russia to the east, Sweden to the west, and is separated from Estonia by the Gulf of Finland to the east of the Baltic Sea.
It spans approximately 130,678 square miles and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the famous Lake District and the northern region of Lapland, which is home to the indigenous Sámi people.
The capital of Finland is Helsinki, which is located in the southern part of the country along the coast of the Gulf of Finland and is home to more than 630,000 people (1.5 million in the larger metropolitan area).
Let’s take a look at some unique Finnish girl names inspired by popular towns and cities in Finland.
10. Oulu
Origin: Oulu is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Oulu is the name of a city in Finland, derived from the Sámi word for “a place where the water flows.” While not a common name for individuals, it represents the cultural significance of the location.
Significance: Oulu is located in northern Finland, near the Gulf of Bothnia, and has a population of about 210,000 people. It is known as a major technology hub and often called Finland’s “Silicon Valley” due to its strong focus on IT and high-tech industries. The city also hosts the annual Air Guitar World Championships, attracting international attention.
9. Lahti
Origin: Lahti is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Lahti refers to a bay or a cove in Finnish. Like Oulu, it’s more commonly known as a place name than a personal name but is sometimes adopted as a unique name.
Significance: of around 120,000. It is renowned for its environmental innovations and was named the European Green Capital in 2021. The city is also a winter sports center, known for ski jumping and cross-country skiing events held at the Lahti Ski Games.
8. Pori
Origin: Pori is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Pori is a coastal city in Finland, and its name is derived from the Finnish word for “fishing.” As with other city names, it carries geographical significance rather than being a common personal name.
Significance: Pori is located on the western coast of Finland, along the Gulf of Bothnia, with a population of about 83,000 people. The city is famous for the Pori Jazz Festival, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals, held annually. Pori is also known for its historical wooden architecture and the beautiful Yyteri beach.
7. Vaasa
Origin: Vaasa is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Vaasa is named after the historical House of Vasa in Sweden, with the name deriving from Vasa, meaning “branch” or “bough.” It’s mainly used as a place name in Finland.
Significance: Vaasa, situated on the western coast of Finland, near Sweden, has around 68,000 residents. It is known for its bilingual heritage, as a significant portion of the population speaks Swedish. Vaasa is also an important center for energy technology and hosts the annual Korsholm Music Festival, showcasing classical music.
6. Mikkeli
Origin: Mikkeli is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Mikkeli is a city in Finland, named after Saint Michael (Mikael in Finnish). The name is derived from the Hebrew name Mikha’el, meaning “who is like God?”
Significance: Mikkeli is located in southeastern Finland, in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, and has a population of approximately 53,000. It is known for its beautiful lakeside scenery and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Mikkeli also has historical significance as the headquarters of the Finnish Army during World War II.
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5. Rauma
Origin: Rauma is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Rauma is a historical town in Finland, and the name is believed to derive from an old Finnish word meaning “twisted” or “wrinkled,” often associated with the local topography.
Significance: Rauma, on Finland’s western coast, has about 40,000 residents and is known for its well-preserved wooden Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city has a strong maritime tradition and is famous for its lace-making heritage, celebrated annually during the Rauma Lace Week. Rauma is also home to one of Finland’s largest ports.
4. Lohja
Origin: Lohja is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Lohja is a town in Finland, and its name is believed to derive from the Finnish word lohi, meaning “salmon.” Like other place names, it can be used uniquely as a personal name.
Significance: Lohja is located in southern Finland, about 60 km west of Helsinki, with a population of around 47,000. It is known for its limestone mines, which have been operational since the 19th century. Lohja also features several lakes and is a popular area for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
3. Salo
Origin: Salo is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Salo is a city in Finland, and its name may derive from an old word meaning “a grove” or “forest area.” Similar to other city names, it evokes a sense of nature.
Significance: Salo is situated in southwestern Finland, with around 52,000 inhabitants. It is best known for being the former home of Nokia’s mobile phone manufacturing plants, which played a crucial role in the city’s economy. Salo has a rich history in electronics and continues to focus on technology and innovation industries.
2. Kemi
Origin: Kemi is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Kemi is a town in Finland, named after the Kemi River. The name is believed to derive from the Sámi word for “river.”
Significance: Kemi is located in northern Finland, near the Swedish border, with a population of approximately 19,000. The city is famous for its annual SnowCastle, a massive structure built from ice and snow, which attracts tourists every winter. Kemi is also an important port for timber and paper industries in Finland.
1. Forssa
Origin: Forssa is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Forssa is a town in Finland, and its name is derived from the Finnish word for “ford,” referring to a river crossing.
Significance: Forssa, in southwestern Finland, has about 17,000 residents and is known for its industrial heritage, particularly in textiles. The city’s former cotton mill has been transformed into a cultural center, housing museums and events. Forssa is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a scenic location for outdoor activities.
Finnish Girl Names Inspired By National Parks in Finland
There are 41 nature reserves in Finland, all of which are free to enter and are open year-round with various marked trails for adventurists to explore. They’re a must-see attraction for any Finland visitor.
The first two National Parks in Finland, Pallas-Ounastunturi and Pyhä, were founded in 1938. Today, there are several dozen located throughout the country, and it’s impossible to get bored by them.
The National Parks are generally categorized by the region they’re located in, including those in the Coast and Archipelago, those in the Lakeland Region, those in Lapland, and those in the Helsinki region.
If you love nature, then you’ll love these Finnish girl names inspired by National Parks in Finland.
10. Lemmen (Lemmenjoki)
Origin: Lemmen is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Lemmen means “of love” or “loving” in Finnish, derived from the word rakkaus, meaning “love.”
Significance: Lemmenjoki National Park, located in northern Lapland, is the largest national park in Finland and one of the largest in Europe, covering over 2,850 square kilometers. The park is known for its vast wilderness, including forests, fells, and the Lemmenjoki River, which was historically a site for gold prospecting. Visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and experiencing the Sámi culture in this remote, serene landscape.
9. Pyhä (Pyhä-Luosto)
Origin: Pyhä is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Pyhä means “holy” or “sacred” in Finnish. It is often associated with religious or spiritual contexts in Finnish culture.
Significance: Pyhä-Luosto National Park, in central Finnish Lapland, is famous for its ancient, rugged fells and picturesque pine forests, with some trees over 400 years old. The park is home to the striking Pyhä Fell, a sacred site for the indigenous Sámi people. Visitors are drawn to its scenic hiking trails, cross-country skiing routes, and the Amethyst Mine, where they can dig for precious stones.
8. Salla
Origin: Salla is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Salla is derived from the Finnish word for “to be calm” or “peaceful.” It also refers to a town in Finland, known for its serene landscapes.
Significance: Salla National Park, located in northeastern Finland near the Russian border, offers pristine wilderness and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for hiking and observing wildlife. Opened in 2022, the park features vast forests, fells, and crystal-clear lakes, providing habitat for reindeer and various bird species. Salla is also known for its quiet, snow-covered landscapes in winter, ideal for snowshoeing and skiing.
7. Oulanka
Origin: Oulanka is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Oulanka refers to a national park in Finland and is derived from the region’s name, which itself comes from the Sámi language.
Significance: Oulanka National Park, located in northeastern Finland near the Russian border, is known for its dramatic landscapes, including rivers, canyons, and rapids. It is home to the popular Karhunkierros (Bear’s Trail), one of Finland’s most famous long-distance hiking trails. The park’s biodiversity includes rare species such as the calypso orchid, and it offers opportunities for rafting, canoeing, and birdwatching.
6. Ekenäs (Ekenäs Archipelago)
Origin: Ekenäs is of Swedish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Ekenäs is a coastal town in Finland, originally named after the Swedish words for “oak” (ek) and “cape” (näs). It is primarily a place name.
Significance: Ekenäs Archipelago National Park is located in southern Finland in the Gulf of Finland, encompassing a network of islands and islets. The park is renowned for its beautiful coastal scenery, diverse marine life, and traditional Finnish fishing culture. It is a paradise for boaters, birdwatchers, and those interested in exploring the rugged shores and secluded coves of the archipelago.
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5. Kauhaneva (Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas)
Origin: Kauhaneva is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Kauhaneva refers to a marshy area in Finland, with kauha meaning “ladle” or “scoop” in Finnish, suggesting a place of water or softness.
Significance: Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas National Park, situated in western Finland, is known for its extensive raised bogs, wetland ecosystems, and sandy ridges. It is part of the UNESCO-listed Finnish Lakeland and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. The park features accessible trails and duckboard paths that allow visitors to explore its unique peatland landscapes.
4. Rahka (Kurjenrahka)
Origin: Rahka is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Rahka means “moss” or “sphagnum” in Finnish, referring to the soft, green plant found in wetlands. It evokes a sense of nature.
Significance: Kurjenrahka National Park, located in southwestern Finland, is characterized by its vast bogs, forests, and swamps, offering an authentic Finnish nature experience. The park is popular for its easy-to-access hiking trails, which provide opportunities to observe wildlife such as cranes and moose. Kurjenrahka is a peaceful retreat, ideal for those looking to escape into nature near the city of Turku.
3. Teijo
Origin: Teijo is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Teijo is a name derived from the Finnish word for “to throw” or “to cast,” commonly used in reference to the nature of water and fishing.
Significance: Teijo National Park, situated in southwestern Finland, near the coast, is a smaller park known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and marshes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing, as well as exploring the charming historical villages within the park. Teijo also features easy-to-navigate trails, making it suitable for families and beginner hikers.
2. Hiiden (Hiidenportti)
Origin: Hiiden is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Hiiden means “goblin” or “spirit” in Finnish, often referring to mythical beings in Finnish folklore.
Significance: Hiidenportti National Park, located in eastern Finland, is named after the impressive Hiidenportti Gorge, a rugged canyon that cuts through the forested landscape. The park is known for its wild and remote atmosphere, with dense forests, bogs, and lakes, making it a haven for those seeking solitude and wildlife observation. Hiking trails lead visitors through untouched wilderness, offering a glimpse of Finland’s natural beauty.
1. Koli
Origin: Koli is of Finnish origin.
Derivation/Meaning: Koli is named after a national park in Finland, derived from the Finnish word for “hill.” It evokes a sense of nature and landscape.
Significance: Koli National Park, in eastern Finland, is famous for its iconic landscape views from the Koli Hills, which have inspired Finnish art and culture for centuries. The park’s rolling hills, forests, and lakes offer stunning scenery year-round, with popular activities including hiking, skiing, and photography. Koli’s cultural significance as a site for Finnish identity and nature worship makes it a must-visit destination.
Are Finnish Girl Names Right for Your Incoming Daughter?
Finnish culture has gained global recognition in recent years, particularly in areas like design, education, and environmental sustainability. As a result, Finnish girl names are growing more popular by the day.
Some Finnish girl names reflect natural elements, such as Sini (meaning “blue”) or Kielo (meaning “lily of the valley”), while other Finnish girl names have a unique sound to them, such as Aino, Lumi, and Sari.
Since so many parents today want their daughter’s name to stand out, Finnish girl names are a great way to go against the norm and try something new. And that’s especially true for those outside of Finland.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Check Out Our Baby Name Generator for More Baby Name Ideas!
At the same time, Finnish girl names aren’t for everyone and some of you might still be looking for that perfect name for your little princess. If so, check out our Mamas Uncut blog for more baby name ideas!