What the olympics meant to Finland? 50 years ago in Helsinki It is now 50 years from the Olympics held in the world's northest capital, Helsinki. Olympic Flame was lit in Greece on 25 June 1952 and it was carried to Finland via Denmark and Sweden. In Helsinki's Stadium, the flame was lit by Paavo Nurmi, the most legendary runner from Finland. For the rest of the world, the Olympics were Helsinki's and Finland's display window. A new airport was built and the Olympic Quay opened in the South Harbour. The city was dressed up with an Olympic spirit and the very first traffic lights were installed. During the Games, the behaviour of Finns received special attention. Finland wanted to develop the culture of manners, especially by elevating drinking habits and enchancing the service orientation. Finland won a total of 6 golds, 3 silvers and 13 bronzes at the Games. In canoeing Finland was the Olympics' top country. The most succesfull athlete at the Helsinki Olympics was the gymnast Victor Churakin of the Soviet Union, who took four golds and two silvers. The Games saw 27 world records set, 15 of them in athletics. Written by Saara Lamberg and Linda Zweygberg Thanks to "1952, Summer to remember"