St Mary's Church in Turku

St Mary's Church is a stone building standing about 18 meters tall with medieval limestone paintings visible on its walls. Inside, a wooden altar cabinet decorated with religious imagery forms an important part of the interior.

The original wooden church was built in 1351 but suffered damage from German pirates in 1396. The stone structure you see today was built around 1440 to replace the damaged building.

The church continues to serve as a place for Lutheran worship and community gatherings where locals mark important moments in their lives. The large altarpiece with Christ on the cross remains the focal point that draws the eye when you enter.

The church is best explored through guided tours that explain the architectural details and protected status of the building. Good signage from the city center makes it easy to find the entrance.

The gables were added about 50 years after the main structure was completed and demonstrate how religious buildings evolved over time in medieval Finland. These later additions give the church its distinctive profile with pointed corners.

Location: Turku

Inception: 1440s

Elevation above the sea: 18 m

Part of: Église Sainte-Marie et son presbytère

Address: Vanha Tampereentie 111, 20380 Turku

GPS coordinates: 60.47337,22.29325

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00