Unmissable Finnish Basilicas That Are Spot-on Architectural Wonders
Tuesday, January 23, 2018 Finland 0 Comments

Finnish Basilicas That Are Spot-on Architectural Wonders

If you feel that you only have a day or half of it left, what do you have to do to spend it wisely? Well, may I suggest seeing two of these heavenly architectural places of worship? These wide range of historical sites that are not only free, but also worthy of your time and energy, is just something that should be done when in Helsinki. Finland’s capital has these two remarkable cathedrals worth a visit, even from the outside. If you manage to come in, the better!

Helsinki Cathedral

First, of course, this massive Cathedral situated at the same square where the Senate (Senaatintori) is. It is also known as the St. Nicholas Church, patron of the traders, after Tzar Nicholas I, who contributed to the construction of the temple. Finished in 1852, this masterpiece was designed by Engel, the German architect. On to its right side, you’ll see the Government Palace, and the main building of the University are at the same square. The statue dedicated to Tzar Alexander II is at the center of the square also. I like this part of Helsinki because it kind of reminds me of so many other places in Europe. Lol. With its obviously tall and green dome and some other smaller domes, its neoclassical style is very reminiscent of the other church styles across Europa.

Today, as a matter of fact, the cathedral is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions, with more than 350,000 people visiting the church each year, some to attend religious events. The church is in regular use for services of worship and even special events such as weddings. The façade alone is just wow, but it’s even more beautiful at night when the Helsinki Cathedral is lit.

Some pop quiz for you, did you know that the opening sequence of the music video for "Sandstorm" by Darude was filmed on Senate Square, prominently featuring the Cathedral in the background? Yes, time to cue that music on your Youtube playlist.

Address: Unioninkatu 29, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
Website:https://finland.fi/life-society/view-the-heart-of-helsinki-cathedral/

Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki

Designed by the Russian architect Aleksey Gornostayev, this is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Helsinki, Finland, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos (the Virgin Mary). There’s nothing plain and simple that I can say about this cathedral. Seeing that its set upon a hillside on the Katajanokka Peninsula overlooking the city makes you appreciate it’s beauty from below, much more once you are near it and seeing the panoramic vista from afar. So, it’s no wonder that there are more than 500,000 visited who has visited the church already!

Reportedly the largest Orthodox Church in Western Europe, the cathedral has several invaluable icons. Byzantine-Russian architectural heritage is what makes this a magnificent structure to begin with, the central dome inside with four granite pillars are just spectacular to look at. The interiors, the chandeliers, and the details are just so precise that it’s perceptibly the request (and the envy) of royalties during their time. I especially liked this one, even after seeing the Rock Church, because this reminds me so much about why I visit Church landmarks in Europe – it just is inspiring and enriching to look and learn from.

Address: Kanavakatu 1, 00160 Helsinki, Finland

Website: http://www.discoveringfinland.com/destination/uspenski-orthodox-cathedral/