Helsinki Cathedral

Helsinki Cathedral is the main church of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church, a large neoclassical building with a prominent green dome at its center, four smaller domes, and twelve apostle statues positioned along the roofline. The structure dominates Senate Square with its white stone exterior, which sets it apart from the surrounding area.

Construction began in 1830 under architect Carl Ludvig Engel and was completed in 1852. The building was originally named St. Nicholas Church, a name it retained until Finland's independence.

The cathedral serves as the main temple of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and hosts national celebrations and ceremonial events throughout the year. Visitors can observe how the building functions as a central gathering place and spiritual hub in the daily life of the city.

The cathedral is open daily from noon through the early evening, with no admission charge and wheelchair access available. Visiting during weekday afternoons or quieter periods offers a calmer experience than peak tourist hours.

The cathedral's bells originated from the earlier Ulrika Eleonora Church that previously stood at the same location. This connection links the current structure to an older religious tradition on the same site.

Location: Helsinki

Inception: 1851

Architects: Carl Ludvig Engel

Official opening: 1852

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Elevation above the sea: 12 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Part of: Senate Square with surroundings, Tuomiokirkko

Address: Kirkkokatu

Website: https://helsingintuomiokirkko.fi

GPS coordinates: 60.17068,24.95211

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:33