Helsinki Cathedral & Senate Square
Helsingin tuomiokirkko / Senaatintori
A Lutheran cathedral with white walls and a green dome, standing high above a flight of steps. Together with the neoclassical buildings around the square, it forms Helsinki's most iconic cityscape.
Helsinki Cathedral was designed by architect Carl Ludvig Engel and completed in 1852. Originally called St. Nicholas' Church in honor of Tsar Nicholas I, it was renamed after Finland gained independence. The church has a Greek cross plan, with a large green central dome and four smaller corner domes. Twelve zinc statues of the Apostles stand along the roofline, so the church is clearly visible from far out at sea. Compared with its exterior, the interior is very simple, with an organ, an altarpiece and statues of Luther, Melanchthon and other Reformation figures. The basement sometimes hosts exhibitions and has a café. In front of the church, Senate Square is the core of Engel's neoclassical plan. The Government Palace stands to the east, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library to the west, and a statue of Tsar Alexander II stands in the centre (he granted Finland considerable autonomy during his reign). The 46 wide steps of the square are a favourite place for locals and visitors to rest and take photos, and there is a Christmas market here in winter. Entry to the cathedral is free (special summer-season charges may apply, so check the official site). Visits are suspended during religious services. It is a 10-minute walk from Helsinki Central Station, and three minutes further east takes you to Market Square.
Opening hours
Church usually daily about 9:00am–6:00pm (extended in summer; visits paused during services); square open all day
Nearby sights
- Market Square & Old Market Hall
- Esplanadi Park
- Allas Sea Pool
- Ateneum Art Museum
- Uspenski Cathedral
- SkyWheel Helsinki
- Design District Helsinki
- Hakaniemi Market Hall