One of the landmarks we went to on our first day of seeing Helsinki was the National Church of Finland. Finland as part of Sweden for much of its history embraced the Protestant Reformation. The National Church, or Cathedral of Helsinki is a Lutheran church.
The Cathedral sits up on a hill in a large square surrounded by government buildings.
I loved the stars on the domes.
Here's one of the building it faces.
The statue of Alexander II of Russia is prominent in the square.
It's a popular tourist spot and the woman on the left is volunteering to take a photo of all of us with my brother's camera.
Inside the cathedral, we would later realize, the decor was understated.
The organist was practicing so we paused to listen.
On Sunday we returned to this cathedral for the service in Finnish. My sister in law had to tell us what the sermon was about.
More of Helsinki and other European cities to come in future posts.
12 comments:
Beautiful architecture. I especially like the stars on the domes.
Oh my, what a cathedral. This nothing that I would ever see in this area. Thanks so much Marcia.
Love those domes. Looks like a wonderful church to visit!
Well captured images through the beautiful city which is Helsinki.
And photos of the cathedral just great.
Regards:)*
Monika
Thanks/kiitos for this tour, Marcia. I was in Finland a few times but it seems I missed the cathedral in Helsinki.
This is quite a huge cathedral. I rather like that it is understated inside .
But, oh my, those pipes! The chance to hear the organ must have been wonderful!
It's beautiful! I love the starry domes!
Wow they like the Portico's on that church and the inside is amazing
Stars. The universe is in here. Lovely idea.
What a wonderful place to visit with greatt architecture.
Absolutely beautiful. i had no idea Finland was ever part of Sweden.
Lovely photos! The Cathedral was restored a few years back. I think it looks better on the outside, the inside is a bit disappointing.
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