The building of Olavinlinna, castle of St. Olaf, began in 1475. The Danish-born founder of the castle, knight Erik Axelsson Tott, decided that a powerful fortification should be build to protect the strategically important Savo region. The castle was supposed to repel Russian attacks from the east and to guarantee the control of the Savo region for the Swedish Crown. The history of Olavinlinna is a mixture of medieval arms clashing, cannons roaring and every-day chores inside the security of the castle's thick walls. The changes in the ownership of the castle left their mark on Olavinlinna: this can be seen in the varied architecture of the castle. These days the castle's halls and rooms can be rented and used for all kinds of events.

Set amid a very romantic and gorgeous lake scenery, the Olavinlinna Castle is the perfect venue for this Summer festival. All who seeks a fully passionate and artistic experience must not miss the operas and concerts held here. The most celebrated plays and majestic collections are what complement this unique experience, along with the Festival’s own productions which will surely take your breath away without fail.