Finlayson Church

Finlayson Church is a house of worship with red brick walls and pointed arch windows standing in Tampere's industrial district. The structure accommodates up to 280 people and today functions as a children's church featuring biblical installations.

The church opened in 1879 as part of the Finlayson cotton factory complex, serving workers for several decades. Its original function changed after the 1970s, though the building itself was preserved.

The building follows English Congregationalist design with a straightforward layout and minimal ornament. The pulpit and organ positioned behind the altar emphasize the simplicity of the space.

The building sits in a former industrial area that has undergone partial redevelopment, making the location straightforward to reach. Visitors should keep in mind that the interior has been adapted for its current role as a children's church with appropriate furnishings.

The organ was built by William Hill & Son in London and traveled through Saint Petersburg before arriving in Tampere, an unusual route for a church instrument in the 1800s. This journey reflects the global trade networks that connected even small industrial cities.

Location: Tampere

Inception: 1879

Architects: Frans Ludvig Calonius

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 97 m

Part of: Tampella factory area

Website: https://tampereenseurakunnat.fi/kirkko_tampereella/kirkot_ja_muut_tilat/kirkot/finlaysonin_kirkko

GPS coordinates: 61.50223,23.75498

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41