Oulu's story starts way back in 1323 with the Treaty of Nöteborg, but it officially became a city in 1605 thanks to King Charles IX of Sweden. In the 1700s, Oulu blossomed into a bustling trade hub, despite facing challenges like fires and wars. The 1800s and 1900s were transformative, turning Oulu into a powerhouse of industry and education. Highlights include the founding of Oulu University in 1959 and a boom in high-tech industries in the 1970s. By 2013, Oulu grew even more, merging with nearby municipalities to become Finland's fifth-largest city.

For a deeper dive into Oulu's fascinating journey, check out the full timeline here.