Expertly curated with real guest insights and local knowledge — Updated 2026

Discover Turku’s Historic Stays for the Ultimate Romantic Escape

Journey through time and romance with our handpicked historical stays in Turku.

Historic Turku Castle illuminated at dusk
At a Glance
Country Finland
City Turku
Day / Night 22° / 14°
Local Time 8:42
July — Now Peak season
Best Months May · Apr

Join us as we explore the charming historic districts of Turku, perfect for couples seeking romantic accommodations near iconic landmarks. This guide offers premium recommendations for intimate hotels that blend history with romance, ideal for culturally rich getaways.

Top Turku stays for History Lovers

Best overall
9
Hotel Kakola

Hotel Kakola

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

Best for couples
8.7
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

Top pick
9
Scandic Hamburger Börs

Scandic Hamburger Börs

Located in the historic district of Luostarinmäki, this boutique hotel exudes charm and tranquility, perfect for couples seeking an intimate escape.

Not sure which Turku hotel suits you?

Discover romantically historic hotels in Turku for couples.

Best choice: Turun Linna (Turku Castle)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Castle tours atmosphere.

Best choice: Luostarinmäki

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Cultural walks atmosphere.

Best choice: Vanha-Suurtori

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Historic sights atmosphere.

Best choice: Cathedral Area (Tuomiokirkko)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Cathedral visit atmosphere.

Best Hotels in Turku for History Lovers

Discover Turku's rich history with a touch of romance at these luxury stays perfect for couples.

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Best for couples
8.7 Excellent
1864 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

Cathedral • River • Warmth

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

  • Charming river views
  • Cathedral proximity
  • Warm ambiance
Scandic Hamburger Börs
Top pick
9 Outstanding
2852 reviews

Scandic Hamburger Börs

Luostarinmäki • Boutique • Tranquility

Located in the historic district of Luostarinmäki, this boutique hotel exudes charm and tranquility, perfect for couples seeking an intimate escape.

  • Calm neighborhood
  • Boutique interiors
  • Personalized service
Hotel Kakola
Smart choice
9 Outstanding
2972 reviews

Hotel Kakola

Cathedral • Spa • Romance

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

  • Nearby cathedral
  • Luxury spa
  • Couple's retreat
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Central location
8.7 Excellent
1864 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

Cathedral • River • Warmth

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

  • Charming river views
  • Cathedral proximity
  • Warm ambiance
Scandic Julia
Hidden gem
8.3 Very Good
1148 reviews

Scandic Julia

Vanha-Suurtori • Cozy • Culture

In Vanha-Suurtori, Scandic Julia combines a cozy atmosphere with convenient access to cultural sights, perfect for couples who love to explore history hand-in-hand.

  • Central Turku
  • Historical highlights
  • Intimate vibe
Hotel Kakola
Boutique stay
9 Outstanding
3575 reviews

Hotel Kakola

Cathedral • Spa • Romance

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

  • Nearby cathedral
  • Luxury spa
  • Couple's retreat
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Walkable area
8.7 Excellent
1855 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

Cathedral • River • Warmth

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

  • Charming river views
  • Cathedral proximity
  • Warm ambiance

How we select Turku hotels

Our choices are based on reviews, local insights, and genuine couple experiences, ensuring the best romantic and historic vibes in Turku.

Best Areas in Turku for History Lovers

Discover charming corners of Turku steeped in history, perfect for couples seeking a romantic, cultural escape.

Turun Linna (Turku Castle)

Step into the past at Turun Linna, a majestic fortress that stands proudly as one of Turku's most significant historical landmarks. This area, surrounding the grand Turku Castle, offers a serene atmosphere full of stories from the medieval era. The winding streets are perfect for leisurely strolls hand-in-hand, as you explore the castle grounds or take a guided tour through its many halls and chambers.

Couples will find this area imbued with a romantic aura, as the nearby parks and gardens provide picturesque spots for picnics or quiet reflection. After a day of historical exploration, enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the quaint, local Finnish restaurants offering stunning views of the castle under the evening sky. Turun Linna's charm is undeniable, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to escape into a storybook setting while uncovering Turku's storied past.

Best for Castle tours
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 92/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.9 · 4.8k reviews
Captivated by Cannons: Turku Castle Siege In 1597, Turku Castle was besieged during the Cudgel War.
Per Brahe: The Reforming Count of Turku Castle Count Per Brahe governed from Turku Castle in the 17th century.
Finland's Oldest Castle Still Stands Strong Built in the late 13th century, it remains a historical icon.
Discover the Dungeon: Hidden Secrets Await Explore the castle’s ancient prison cells and dungeons.
Turun Linna (Turku Castle)

Luostarinmäki

Transport yourselves to the 18th century in Luostarinmäki, Turku's charming open-air museum and preservation area. Nestled amidst wooden houses and cobblestone streets, this district offers couples a glimpse into traditional Finnish life. Explore the artisanal workshops and quaint boutiques that give this neighborhood its distinctive cultural flair, all while hand-in-hand through its charming lanes.

Luostarinmäki is perfect for those looking to indulge in a quiet, intimate exploration of history. The unique atmosphere invites you to slow down, savoring moments over a cup of coffee at a quaint café nearby. This area becomes truly magical in the evening as the lantern-lit streets create a serene, almost enchanted ambiance. Revel in the past while crafting new, romantic memories in this historical haven.

Best for Cultural walks
Walking route 3 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 92/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.0 · 5.8k reviews
Survived the Flames: The Great Fire of 1827 Luostarinmäki is the only area to survive Turku's Great Fire.
Craftsmanship Lives in Luostarinmäki Museum Visit workshops preserving traditional crafts and skills.
A Name with Meaning: Luostarinmäki Luostarinmäki translates to 'Monastery Hill.'

Self-guided walking tour Luostarinmäki — History Lovers (Turku, Finland)

~3.7 km · ~53 min · 3 stops
≈4,900 steps ≈186 kcal 3 h 8 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Monastery Avenue Katedralskolan i Åbo
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(24)
🗿 Monument
Picturesque old street with history
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 07:00-22:00
1
Kakolanmäki Turun vankila
4.3★★★★★★★★★★(3.1k)
🗿 Monument
Visit the historic Kakolanmäki
⏱ ~45 min · 🕐 Tu-Th 17:00-23:00, Fr 12:00-14:30,16:00-24:00, Sa 13:00-24:00 ·
2
Turku Castle Turku
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(10.7k)
🏰 Castle
Iconic medieval castle by the river
🏛 1229 · ⏱ ~60 min
3

Vanha-Suurtori

Immerse yourself in the heart of Turku's history at Vanha-Suurtori, the city’s celebrated old square. This historically rich area features stunning architecture with buildings dating back to the Renaissance, making it a perfect backdrop for couples who appreciate the grandeur of days gone by. Enjoy a stroll through the square where each corner seems to whisper tales from centuries past.

The area thrives with cultural significance, home to many of the city's key historical buildings, as well as vibrant markets and seasonal events. This lively yet quaint square offers a romantic retreat from modernity, especially when enjoyed at twilight when the façade of buildings glow under soft street lighting. Couples can find respite at cozy restaurants lining the square, offering gourmet dinners with Finnish delicacies and the perfect atmosphere for intimate conversations.

Best for Historic sights
Walking route 6 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 92/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.5 · 3k reviews
Where Trade Thrived: Market Square's History Once the heart of medieval Turku's trade and commerce.
Elias Lönnrot's Literary Journey Began Here Lönnrot, famed for the Kalevala, often visited Vanha-Suurtori.
Summer Stage: Theater in the Square's Heart Enjoy open-air plays and performances each summer.
Vanha-Suurtori

Self-guided walking tour Vanha-Suurtori — History Lovers (Turku, Finland)

~2.0 km · ~28 min · 6 stops
≈2,600 steps ≈98 kcal 4 h 23 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Kupittaa Park Kupittaa
4.4★★★★★★★★★★(5.1k)
🌳 Park
Expansive park with a serene ambiance
⏱ ~45 min
1
Luostarinmäki Museum Quarter Luostarinmäen museokortteli
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(2.2k)
🏛️ Museum
Historic quarter showcasing wooden houses
⏱ ~45 min
2
Aurajoki Riverside Auransilta
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(376)
🎡 Attraction
Scenic walk along the Aurajoki Riverside
⏱ ~45 min · 🕐 Mo-Th,Su 14:00-24:00; Fr-Sa 14:00-02:00 ·
3
Aboa Vetus Ars Nova
4.4★★★★★★★★★★(2.4k)
🏛️ Museum
Intriguing mix of archaeology and modern art
🏛 1995 · ⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Tu-Su 11:00-18:00 ·
4
Brinkkala Mansion Valokuvakeskus Peri
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(205)
📍 Landmark
Explore the historical Brinkkala Mansion
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 07:00-22:00
5
The Old Great Square Valokuvakeskus Peri
4.3★★★★★★★★★★(2.2k)
Square
Historic atmosphere at The Old Great Square
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 07:00-22:00
6

Cathedral Area (Tuomiokirkko)

Discover the spiritual center of Turku in the Cathedral Area, home to the magnificent Turku Cathedral. This area is steeped in history and religious heritage, offering couples a romantic yet thought-provoking experience. Walk side by side through the peaceful cathedral grounds, where tranquility infuses each visitor’s step, and the impressive gothic architecture sparks awe and admiration.

Rich in both atmosphere and academic influence, thanks to its proximity to the University of Turku, the area is vibrant with youthful energies mixed with historical gravitas. Enjoy a sunset walk by the Aura River nearby, or indulge in a couple's spa experience at one of the luxurious hotels close to the cathedral. The Cathedral Area offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day romance, ideal for couples seeking a balanced escapade.

Best for Cathedral visit
Walking route 5 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Luxury
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 92/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.9 · 5.4k reviews
Standing Tall: The Oldest Cathedral in Finland Tuomiokirkko was consecrated in 1300, an architectural marvel.
King Eric XIV Crowned in Turku's Heart In 1563, King Eric XIV of Sweden was crowned at the cathedral.
Chiming Beauty: Turku Cathedral's Famous Bells Listen to the century-old bells ring meritoriously.
From River to Cathedral: A Monumental Landmark Built near the River Aura, once a small seafaring chapel.
Cathedral Area (Tuomiokirkko)

Self-guided walking tour Cathedral Area (Tuomiokirkko) — History Lovers (Turku, Finland)

~3.2 km · ~46 min · 5 stops
≈4,200 steps ≈162 kcal 4 h 11 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Michael's Church Mikaelinkirkko
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(1.1k)
Church
Gothic Revival church with stunning architecture
🏛 1899 · 👤 Lars Sonck · ⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-02:00, Sa,Su 10:00-02:00 ·
1
Aurajoki Riverside Auransilta
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(376)
🎡 Attraction
Scenic walk along the Aurajoki Riverside
⏱ ~45 min · 🕐 Mo-Th,Su 14:00-24:00; Fr-Sa 14:00-02:00 ·
2
Aboa Vetus Ars Nova
4.4★★★★★★★★★★(2.4k)
🏛️ Museum
Intriguing mix of archaeology and modern art
🏛 1995 · ⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Tu-Su 11:00-18:00 ·
3
Luostarinmäki Museum Quarter Luostarinmäen museokortteli
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(2.2k)
🏛️ Museum
Historic quarter showcasing wooden houses
⏱ ~45 min
4
Kupittaa Park Kupittaa
4.4★★★★★★★★★★(5.1k)
🌳 Park
Expansive park with a serene ambiance
⏱ ~45 min
5

Best time to visit Turku (Finland)

Now (July) avg: 18°C, wetter month, full season — expect crowds. Best months to walk: May & Apr.

Live Temp
~Day / Night Temp 22°C / 14°C
Sunrise / Sunset 4:27 / 22:47
Local time 8:42
Sea Temp 22°C
Best Months May & Apr
J Jan F Feb M Mar A Apr best month M May best month J Jun J Jul this month A Aug S Sep O Oct N Nov D Dec
Check Turku hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Sea temperature Sea warmth for swimming, by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Turku guides →

Best Hotels in Turku for History Lovers

Discover Turku's rich history with a touch of romance at these luxury stays perfect for couples.
Hotel Kakola
Best overall
9 Outstanding
2972 reviews

Hotel Kakola

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

Ideal for: Couples seeking spa indulgence
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Best for couples
8.7 Excellent
1864 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

Ideal for: Romantic cultural seekers
Scandic Hamburger Börs
Top pick
9 Outstanding
2852 reviews

Scandic Hamburger Börs

Located in the historic district of Luostarinmäki, this boutique hotel exudes charm and tranquility, perfect for couples seeking an intimate escape.

Ideal for: Couples seeking intimate escape
Hotel Kakola
Smart choice
9 Outstanding
2972 reviews

Hotel Kakola

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

Ideal for: Couples seeking spa indulgence
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Central location
8.7 Excellent
1864 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

Ideal for: Romantic cultural seekers
Scandic Julia
Hidden gem
8.3 Very Good
1148 reviews

Scandic Julia

In Vanha-Suurtori, Scandic Julia combines a cozy atmosphere with convenient access to cultural sights, perfect for couples who love to explore history hand-in-hand.

Ideal for: Exploring couples
Hotel Kakola
Boutique stay
9 Outstanding
3575 reviews

Hotel Kakola

Set near Turku's iconic cathedral, Hotel Kakola offers a spa retreat with luxurious treatments for couples looking for a serene getaway in a historic setting.

Ideal for: Couples seeking spa indulgence
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Walkable area
8.7 Excellent
1855 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

A riverside stay near the Cathedral, offering warm hospitality and exquisite suites. Enjoy charming riverside walks and stunning architecture views.

Ideal for: Romantic cultural seekers

Secure Your Romantic Turku Escape

Book early to ensure your ideal historical experience in beautiful Turku. Romantic rooms fill up fast!

Compare Turku hotels for History Lovers

Explore and contrast Turku's historic hotels for couples.
Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku
Best for couples
8.7 Excellent
1864 reviews

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, Turku

Cathedral • River • Warmth
Historic and riverside charm
River Views
Picturesque scenes
Cathedral Access
Steps from history
Bar
Chic cocktail bar
Scandic Hamburger Börs
Top pick
9 Outstanding
2852 reviews

Scandic Hamburger Börs

Luostarinmäki • Boutique • Tranquility
Boutique charm in Luostarinmäki
Quiet Area
Peaceful setting
Boutique Hotel
Stylish decor
Historic Building
Period features

Traditional Local Food Turku (Finland)

Local Flavours of Turku — Explore recipes, history, our unique food flavour DNA graph and more.

Bread Vegetarian

Archipelago Bread

Saaristolaisleipä
SAH-ris-toh-lai-slay-pa

A dense, dark bread made from rye, malt, and molasses.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Baltic Herring

Silakka
SEE-lahk-kah

Marinated Baltic herring, a popular fish dish from Finnish coastal areas.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Baltic Herring Fillets

Silakkapihvit
SEE-lahk-kah-pee-veet

Fried or baked herring fillets, a coastal staple in Turku.

Snack Meat

Black Sausage

Mustamakkara
MOOS-tah-MAHK-kah-rah

Blood sausage traditionally eaten with lingonberry jam.

Main course Meat

Blood Pancakes

Veriohukainen
VEH-ree-oh-hoo-kai-nen

Savory pancakes made from pig's blood, flour, and spices.

Snack Meat

Blood Sausage

Mustamakkara
MOO-sta-mahk-ka-rah

A traditional blood sausage from Tampere region.

Dessert Vegetarian

Bread Cheese with Cloudberry Jam

Leipäjuusto ja Lakkahillo
LAY-pah-yoo-stoh yah LAK-kah-hee-loh

A squeaky Finnish cheese served with sweet cloudberry jam

Main course Meat

Cabbage Casserole

Kaalilaatikko
KAH-lee-lah-tik-koh

A hearty casserole made with cabbage, rice, and ground meat.

Main course Vegetarian

Carrot Casserole

Porkkanalaatikko
POR-ka-na-lah-teek-ko

A sweet and savory baked dish made with carrots, rice, and spices.

Main course Meat

Finnish Meatballs

Lihapullat
LEE-ha-pool-laht

Tender meatballs typically served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.

Soup Fish & Seafood

Fish Soup

Kalakeitto
KAH-lah-keet-toh

A traditional Finnish soup rich in salmon and potatoes.

Soup Meat

Hernekeitto

HER-neh-kay-it-toh

Traditional Finnish pea soup made with peas and pork.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Kalakukko

KAH-lah-koo-koh

Fish-filled rye bread popular in Finnish cuisine.

Snack Vegetarian

Karelian Pasties

Karjalanpiirakat
KAHR-yah-lahn-pee-rah-kaht

Traditional Finnish pastries filled with rice porridge.

Snack Meat

Lihapiirakka

LEE-ha-pee-rahk-kah

Finnish meat pie often enjoyed as a snack.

Main course Meat

Liver Casserole

Maksalaatikko
MAHK-sah-lah-tee-koh

A Finnish casserole made from liver, rice, and raisins.

🥦
Dessert Vegetarian

Minttu Liqueur Chocolate Cake

Minttu-suklaakakku
MINT-too-SOOK-lah-kah-koo

A rich chocolate cake infused with mint liqueur

Dessert Vegetarian

Mustikkapiirakka

MOOS-teek-kah-pee-RAHK-kah

Finnish blueberry pie made with wild berries.

Main course Meat

Pyttipannu

puh-ti-pahn-noo

A fried hash of potatoes, onions, and meats, akin to a comforting Finnish skillet.

Main course Vegetarian

Rice Porridge

Riisipuuro
REE-see-poo-roh

A creamy rice porridge cooked with milk and a hint of cinnamon.

Starter Vegetarian

Rosolli

roh-sohl-lee

A festive root vegetable salad often served with herring and a creamy dressing.

Bread Vegan

Ruisleipä

ROOS-lay-pah

Hearty Finnish rye bread, a staple of the local diet.

Dessert Vegetarian

Runeberg Torte

Runebergintorttu
ROO-neh-bairg-tohr-too

An almond-flavored torte topped with raspberry jam and sugar glaze.

Dessert Vegetarian

Åland Pancake

Ahvenanmaan pannukakku
AH-vheh-nahn-mahn pah-NU-kah-koo

A thick oven-baked pancake topped with whipped cream and fruit jam.

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Turku

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

Turku stay tips for History Lovers

Guided Tours from Vartiovuori

Join historical walking tours starting at Vartiovuori. Walk through time with an expert and uncover historical gems while enjoying romantic vistas of Turku's skyline.

Tip: Vartiovuori historical skyline tours

Romantic Dinners by the Aura River

Indulge in intimate candlelit dinners at one of the many riverside restaurants by the Aura River, conveniently located near Turku's historic sites for a perfect evening.

Tip: Riverside dining near historic sites

Boutique Hotels in Luostarinmäki

Stay in a romantic boutique hotel in Luostarinmäki, known for its charming wooden houses. Enjoy walking through the area's historic streets with your partner.

Tip: Luostarinmäki for boutique romance

Couple Spa Retreats in Turku

Relax in one of Turku's historic-area spas, offering couple packages. Combine history exploration with relaxation for the perfect romantic retreat.

Tip: Historic area spa retreats for couples

Turku for History Lovers: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Turku?

The best time to visit Turku is May and April — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

What are the best hotels near historical sites in Turku?

Stay at Hotel Seaport adjacent to Turku Castle, offering romantic rooms with historical charm. Perfect for couples wanting to explore Turku’s storied past.

Which neighborhoods offer the richest historical experiences in Turku?

Turku’s Old Town is a treasure trove of history with medieval streets and charming architecture—ideal for a romantic wander.

Are there any guided historical tours available nearby?

Join a guided walking tour starting near the Aura River, which expertly covers the highlights of Turku’s history, including old town districts and key landmarks.

What is the most romantic area in Turku for history lovers?

The banks of the Aura River offer historical beauty with its old bridges and scenic promenades, perfect for a sunset stroll with your loved one.

Which hotels are best for couples wanting a historical stay in Turku?

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel offers a blend of romance and history, located near the River Aura with stunning views and intimate settings for couples.

Turku's Historic Stays for Couples

For History Lovers
Join us as we explore the charming historic districts of Turku, perfect for couples seeking romantic accommodations near iconic landmarks. This guide offers premium recommendations for intimate hotels that blend history with romance, ideal for culturally rich getaways.
  • Handpicked hotels
  • Scenic Turku areas
  • Romantic atmospheres
  • Updated 2026
EuropeFinlandTurkuDiscover Turku’s Historic Stays for the Ultimate Romantic Escape
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