Visit The Spectacular Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral

The capital of Finland has become a tourist focus, especially since it was recognized as one of the 10 best cities to live. We want you to discover one of its treasures, we are going to tell you all about the Lutheran Cathedral of Helsinki. Are you coming with us?

Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral, spectacular!

Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral is more than just a monument to see in the city. It has become one of its emblems, and also of the country. It is a majestic building, with spectacular lines, which make it one of the most striking temples in the world.

Crowned by a huge dome and on a magnificent staircase, this cathedral is one of the most visited places in Finland. We are going to know everything about her.

Origin

It is known for the white cathedral. And if there is something that stands out in it, it is that immaculate color. A tone that gives it a magical aura when sunlight reflects off its walls.

The works began in 1830, although the temple was completed in 1852. It was made as a tribute to Tsar Nicholas of Russia, who at that time ruled the country. Finland was then Russian territory.

Its designer was Carl Ludvig Engel, who was inspired by the famous Saint Isaac’s Cathedral in Saint Petersburg, one of the most beautiful and well-known in Russia. In fact, when looking at the Lutheran Cathedral in Helsinki, it is easy to see the similarities between the two.

While Finland belonged to Russia, the temple was called St. Nicholas Cathedral. However, when the country became independent it changed its name.

Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral Features

The cathedral, built in the neoclassical style, has a Greek cross as a plan. This means that the four arms of the cross, and therefore the four parts of its construction, are of the same length.

Its exterior is obvious thanks to several elements. On the one hand, the access staircase. On the other, the numerous columns that support its structure. And finally, it is necessary to highlight its five green domes with golden finishes, which stand out from the almost pure white color of its façade.

The interior, like all Lutheran temples, is very austere. You will hardly see any decorative elements in the cathedral. It is worth mentioning, yes, the golden pulpit and its huge organ. In addition, you can see two statues of the best known Lutheran reformers: Martin Luther and Philipp Melanchthon.

Not only simple, the interior of the cathedral contrasts sharply with its exterior appearance in another sense. And, despite the fact that it is magnificent on the outside, its interior only has the capacity to house 1,300 faithful.

More than a symbol

Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral is one of the great tourist attractions of the city. Every year more than 350,000 people visit it. But it is, above all, a cathedral in use where all kinds of religious events are held.

In addition, the Senado Square, the place where the temple is located, is also a space for all kinds of celebrations and mass events. 

What else to see in Helsinki

Besides Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral, the country’s capital has a lot to show for it. Among the highlights is the aforementioned Orthodox cathedral. A building that is also important, although it looks very different from that of the Lutheran cathedral.

Also not to be missed is the  central train station, the National Theater and the National Museum of Finland, where you can learn about the entire history of the country, from the Stone Age to the present day.

This city has a special charm.  For this reason, we recommend that you let yourself lose yourself and breathe all its essence in order to create indelible memories in your mind. But above all, when you are there, do not forget to visit the Lutheran Cathedral of Helsinki, because we assure you that it will be worth it.