As early as the 7th century, Aaland was one of the most densely populated areas of Scandinavia. It was not until recent years that archaeological excavations made it possible to reconstruct the course of history and thereby to fit the role of Aaland into the Scandinavian and international context. The countless monuments from undocumented times remind the visitor that in Aaland he is treading on historic soil.

In addition to the scenic attractions with which Aaland is so richly endowed, there are many historical points of interest. They include the lovely medieval churches which are among the oldest and most notable in Scandinavia. The ruins of the fortress of Bomarsund - a "Northern Gibraltar" planned by the czars - recreate for the visitor the era of the Crimean War of 1854-56, during which a combined British-French armada with landing-troops sailed into the Baltic and, after a short siege, overpowered the fortress and demolished it. The post-office building at Storby-Ecker� offers evidence of another fascinating historical aspect. Other relics of ancient times are the chapel ruins on the summit of the Lemb�te-berget in Lemland and those on Signildsk�r, an island west of Ecker�. The Aaland Museum in Mariehamn has a number of rare and valuable archaeological treasures on display and there are lot of other interesting museums. The Aaland Maritime Museum has collections that have gained a world-wide reputation.