Lappeenranta has grown with Eastern and Western cultural influences, for centuries. Lappeenranta was granted a town charter in 1649. The Swedish and Russian influences are possibly best visible in the oldest part of the city, the Fortress.
Today, the city is a modern tourist centre. There has been a strong desire to retain the old elements. For example, most museums and some accommodations are in refurbished buildings that are of particular interest to those interested in cherishing building traditions.