Tuomiokirkko (Cathedral)

The trademark of Helsinki rises up majestically on Senate Square, from a hill above the city. The first plans for the cathedral, which was built in the classical style between 1830 and 1850, were drawn up by Carl Ludwig Engel. After it was completed, the building, which has a six-column atrium, Corinthian chapels and a high main dome, was named after Russian Tsar Nicholas 1. The four little towers with the smaller domes were added later for static reasons and give the cathedral, with its green patinated... copper roofs, a Russian feel. In 1959, what had been known as the "Big Church" since Finnish independence was finally dubbed Helsinki Cathedral.
From the wide granite steps, there is a wonderful view of the unique classical complex of the Senate Square, the Town Council and the university, all designed by C.L.Engel. At its heart is a monument to Russian Tsar Alexander II. more

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