The main attractions of Helsinki. Sights of Helsinki: list, photos and descriptions. What to see and where to go in Helsinki
The capital of neighboring Finland, Helsinki, is an excellent destination for a holiday or weekend trip. The journey will not take much time, and there are so many attractions that every traveler will find something interesting in this city. The trip will also be exciting for children, as Helsinki also has plenty of entertainment for them. So, below is a list of the main attractions of the capital of Finland on a map and a list with a description.
Helsinki attractions map
If you prefer to use printed maps, I suggest download a map of Helsinki with attractions(download pdf)
And for those who are accustomed to interactive maps, I suggest you “walk” around the city using this map.
View Sights of Helsinki on a larger map
List of attractions in Helsinki
Senate square is the central square of Helsinki, built at the beginning of the 19th century in the neoclassical style. The state, municipal, church and academic life of the city was concentrated here. The main buildings that make up the ensemble of this square were designed by the architect of German origin, Karl Ludwig Engel.
Cathedral- the main Lutheran church of the Helsinki diocese, located on Senate Square. It was inaugurated on February 15, 1852 and was originally called St. Nicholas Cathedral, in honor of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of trade and navigation, who was the patron saint of Tsar Nicholas I. After Finland gained independence, it began to be called the Great Church, and in 1959 it received its the current name is the Cathedral. (Unioninkatu st., 29)
Monument to Emperor Alexander II– a monument to the Russian emperor, erected in 1894 on Senate Square, who significantly expanded Finnish autonomy, gave Finland the constitution of 1863 and introduced the Finnish stamp into circulation.
City Hall and surrounding areas– the streets located south of Senate Square were built back in the 1700s, and then updated by K.G. Engel during the construction of a new city. The colonnaded Bocca House, rebuilt in 1818, was the city hall at that time. Over time, the building lost its significance and now the Virka Galleria gallery is located here and Finnish design products are traded. Until the 1900s, these neighborhoods were the center of trade, and now they house various commercial premises and restaurants.
Trade Square or Market Square– the main square of Helsinki, where you can buy various souvenirs and market delicacies. In local language it is called Kauppatori. (South Port)
Havis Amanda- a bronze fountain with a naked nymph, installed in 1908 on the city’s Trade Square. (Intersection of Unionin-katu street, North and South Esplanade)
Esplanade Park– the oldest park in Helsinki, a favorite vacation spot for citizens and tourists. The Espa Theater operates here in the summer. Along the linden alley of the park you can find several monuments to Finnish writers and poets.
Assumption Cathedral- the main Orthodox church of Helsinki, made of red brick. Located on a hill near the embankment. The architect of the church was A.M. Gornostaev, the project was completed in 1868. The Assumption Cathedral still remains the largest and most significant Orthodox church in Northwestern Europe. (1 Kanawakatu St.)
Presidential palace– building renovated by K.G. Engel, was intended to house the Russian Imperial Family. During the years of independence it was used as the residence of the President of the Republic. Nowadays, important receptions are sometimes held in the palace, and at other times it is open to tourists. (1 Pohoyisespanadi st.)
Suomenlinna Fortress– built by the Swedes in 1748 on the islands near Helsinki (regular ferries go to the fortress), the fortress served for many years to protect against enemies. The site is in Russian.
Central railway station– the station, opened in 1919, is one of the striking works of Finnish architecture.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art- this museum contains paintings, spatial works and other exhibits of contemporary art from various countries since the 60s of the 20th century. (Mannerheiminaukio sq. 2)
National Museum of Finland– opened in 1916. The museum contains an interesting exhibition dedicated to the history of Finland. In the halls of the museum, exhibits are arranged in chronological order, so that you can trace the development of Finland, starting from ancient times. The museum building resembles a stone castle with a high tower. (Mannerheimintie Ave. 34)
Natural Science Museum– the University of Helsinki housed its zoological collections in a classic four-story mansion. Here you can see dinosaur bones, landscape models, stuffed animals and representatives of the deep sea of the Baltic Sea. The building is easy to recognize by the figure of an elk standing near the main entrance. (Pohoinen Rautatiukatu St., 13)
Temppeliaukio rock church– one of the most famous attractions of Helsinki. Two architect brothers created a church project in the 60s of the 20th century, deciding to choose pieces of rock, which were very often found on the streets of the city, as a building material. To realize the idea, they had to blow up the rock and then cover the remains with a dome. Temppeliaukio's good acoustics make it possible to hold musical concerts within its walls. (Luterinkatu st., 3)
Houses of Parliament– a massive building, the facade of which is decorated with red granite, is one of the most famous in Finland and was built in 1925-1931 of the 20th century in the classicist style. Accommodates meeting rooms for 200 members of parliament and an impressive library. Guided tours are available inside. In front of the entrance there is a monument to the first president of the republic K.Yu. Stolberg. (Mannerheimintie Ave. 30)
Botanical Garden of the University of Helsinki was opened in 1829. The wonderful garden contains several hundred different plants, some of which are grown in greenhouses. (Unioninkatu st., 44)
Monument to Sibelius– located in the park of the same name. It was opened in 1967 and dedicated to the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. It consists of several hundred connected metal pipes. Nearby is a bronze head of the composer. (Mishelininkatu st., 38)
ATHENEUM Art Museum– National Gallery of Finland. Many works of Finnish art from 1750-1960 are collected here. (Kaivoka-tu st., 2)
Finnish National Theater– erected in 1902 on Station Square in the national romantic style. Accommodates about a thousand spectators.
Seurasaari Museum Island- a unique place in the western part of Helsinki, very popular among city residents. There is an open-air museum here, which contains restored ancient buildings from all over Finland. You will be able to get acquainted with the life of Finnish peasants and find out what things were used by local residents more than a hundred years ago.
Korkeasaari Zoo– one of the oldest in Northern Europe. Located on the island of Korkeasaari, which can be reached either by bus No. 11 from the train station or by ferry from the Market Square (from May to September-September). Website?
Aquarium SEA LIFE- a huge marine center consisting of several aquariums and an oceanarium with a capacity of 250 cubic meters. Located in Linnanmäki amusement park. Here you can see a variety of marine fauna from tropical seas to Baltic waters. Visitors walk through a glass tunnel as sharks and other species of the deep ocean swim past. Website
Linnanmäki Amusement Park is the oldest amusement park in Helsinki, which contains more than forty different attractions for children and adults. There is also a cinema, museums, a Ferris wheel and playgrounds. Website
Waterpark Serena– located in the suburbs of Helsinki. The water park is quite large, built in a tropical style. Guests are provided with the standard set of entertainment of a quality water park: scary and not so scary slides, a pool with an artificial wave, various pools, saunas and cafes. Website
Download a guide with routes around Helsinki
Although many people say that there is absolutely nothing to do in Helsinki, I recommend not to believe such unfortunate travelers. The city is wonderful and perfect for a short trip to Europe. I hope that the map of Helsinki attractions will help you spend your time usefully and very interestingly ( review of my trip to Helsinki).
Hotel price comparison in Helsinki
The memory of the most popular Finnish composer of his era, Jean Sibelius, is highly respected by the people of the country. After all, he wrote not only many musical works, but also the unofficial anthem of the country. By the way, it was banned during the reign of Emperor Nicholas II. Therefore, the authorities approached the creation of the monument with all responsibility. The famous Finnish sculptor Eila Hiltunen worked on it for ten years.
By the way, from the very beginning it evoked far from the most unambiguous emotions among city residents and tourists. But over time, the townspeople understood the master’s idea and understood her vision of the composer’s image.
The monument is a composition of 580 pipes. The wind hums through them, reminding us that the image of nature played a huge role in Sibelius’s music. And nearby there is a sculptural portrait of a musician.
Helsinki Zoo
The Helsinki Zoo occupies an entire island in the eastern part of the Finnish capital. Here you can see animals and birds from different parts of the world. The zoo is combined with a botanical garden, on the territory of which about 1,000 species of flowers, trees and shrubs are grown.
The zoo is home to about 200 species of animals that live here in their natural environment. There are pavilions for Africa and the Amazon with tropical monkeys and parrots. A huge area of the zoo is devoted to ungulates. The zoo also shows films and gives lectures about animals. In the park, you can press a button on special machines and find out what, for example, a skunk and other animals smell like.
You can get to the island of Korkeasaari ("High Island"), which gives the name to the zoo, from highway 170, then turn onto the island of Kulosaari, and from there the Korkeasaari or Zoo signs will lead to the free parking of the zoo. During the summer months, a water bus runs to the zoo every half hour from Helsinki Market Square or Hakaniemi.
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Helsinki Metro
The Helsinki Metro has one feature that is distinctive from all other subways in the world - it is the northernmost in the world. In addition, the metro in Helsinki is the only one in Finland.
Its construction began in 1969, and the first train ran in 1982.
The metro consists of one line, which is divided into two directions. The total length of the Helsinki metro is 22.1 kilometers. And although this is a fairly short distance, the subway copes with its task perfectly - you can cross the entire capital of Finland in just 20 minutes. The metro has 17 stations, mainly connecting the eastern districts of Helsinki.
It is noteworthy that there are no turnstiles, just as there is no separate ticket for travel on the metro - in Helsinki there is one ticket for all types of transport.
For tourists there is a Helsinki Card, it is valid from 24 to 72 hours and guarantees free travel on public transport in the capital.
By the way, some metro stations (Vuosaari, Rautatientori, Kamppi, Itä keskus) have exits directly to shopping centers, which is quite convenient.
The university was founded in the city of Turku in 1640 as the Royal Academy of Turku. In 1828 he was transferred to Helsinki - closer to the administrative authorities. In 1944, some university buildings were destroyed by Soviet bombing.
The campus consists of four parts, each of which has its own research area. The central campus (Keskustakampus) houses the faculties of humanities and social sciences, theology and law, as well as the department of the Open University. Medical students study in Meilahti. Mathematicians, geographers, geologists and meteorologists are located on the Kumpulan campus. Students of the Faculty of Agriculture, as well as pharmacists and veterinarians study in Viikki. In addition, the university has a number of regional seismological stations. And in January 2012, a new Center for Russian Studies began operating at the university.
According to the Times, the university has lowered its position and since 2012 is no longer among the hundred most prestigious universities in the world, and ranks 30th in the hundred European universities.
Helsinki Central Station
The railway station building in Helsinki is the most famous piece of Finnish architecture in the world. It was built in the Nordic Art Nouveau style by architect Eliel Saarinen.
The first station in Helsingfors (Helsinki) was built in 1861. With the development of railways, the growth of industry and trade, passenger traffic increased significantly, which the old building could no longer cope with. In connection with this, in December 1903, a competition was announced for the design of a new station building and administrative building. Eliel Saarinen's project received first prize.
Construction began in 1905. The administrative building was completed in 1909, the station in 1914. Slightly renovated, it was opened as a station in 1919. Construction cost 7 million Finnish marks.
Contemporaries received the station with a bang, not only in Finland, but also in other countries. Modern structures were used in the building, in particular, reinforced concrete vaults of the entrance vestibule. The building's layout is simple and convenient - it's impossible to get lost there. This generally dry architecture is enlivened by the figures on the sides of the main entrance, with lanterns in their hands (sculptor Emil Wikström). The building is decorated with a clock tower 48.5 meters high. One of the walls of the restaurant hall is decorated with a painting by artist E. Järnefelt depicting Lake Pielisjärvi.
Assumption Cathedral
The Assumption Cathedral is located in the historical center of Helsinki, Finland. The height of the temple is 51 meters. It is the largest Orthodox cathedral in Northern and Western Europe. It was built according to the design of the Russian architect Alexei Gornostaev in the pseudo-Byzantine style - the building is made of red brick, topped with spiers and gilded domes with crosses. This very original appearance for Finland has its own explanation - at the time of the construction of the temple, Finland was part of the Russian Empire. Named in honor of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Assumption Cathedral was built from 1862 to 1868. During this time, Gornostaev managed to die, so the architect Varnek completed the construction of the temple, who, however, made virtually no changes to the project. The consecration of the temple took place on October 25, 1868. What is noteworthy is that all funds for the construction of the cathedral were raised using only voluntary donations.
In 2006, the domes of the cathedral were reconstructed and re-gilded.
Every year, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is visited by almost half a million tourists.
National Museum of Finland
The National Museum of Finland is located in Helsinki.
Three Finnish architects - Gesellius, Saarinen and Lindgren - worked on the creation of the project for this building. The museum was built at the beginning of the last century. Construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1910. In 1916, the first visitors came to the museum. The museum building has become a striking example of national romanticism in architecture.
Museum visitors here get acquainted with the history of Finland from the Stone Age to the present day. The museum displays collections of coins, medals and orders, jewelry, weapons and much more. Most of the exhibits were found in Finland during archaeological excavations.
You can visit the museum for free every Thursday from 17:30.
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Natural History Museum Helsinki
The Natural History Museum at the University of Helsinki is located in the center of the capital, near the Kamppi metro station. It occupies a four-story mansion built in a classical style. The building can be easily recognized by the sculpture of an elk, which is installed to the right of the entrance.
The museum building houses 4 permanent exhibitions, the objects of which you can even touch. The halls contain zoological collections, all kinds of landscapes, various skeletons of ancient creatures, as well as objects telling about the theory of evolution.
Initially, the museum building was intended for a Russian school for boys, and during the Civil War it housed the army headquarters. In 1923, the University of Helsinki bought the building and housed its zoological collections.
The most popular attractions in Helsinki with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Helsinki on our website.
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More sights of Helsinki
The city of developed tourism, Helsinki, whose attractions amaze with their diversity, is located in the southern part of the country.
Social structure
Helsinki is the administrative center of the province of Uusimaa and, together with its satellite cities of Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen, forms a region home to more than one and a half million people. Greater Helsinki consists of 12 municipalities, on the territory of which there are 8 universities, many social institutions and technology parks. The population is actively migrating to the capital, making Helsinki the fastest growing metropolitan area in Europe.
In Finland, the main international airport is Helsinki-Vantaa, which is located just 20 kilometers from the center of the capital. The most modern airliners fly from the airport around the world.
Rating
In 2014, the city of Helsinki, whose sights are of interest to hundreds of thousands of tourists from different countries, took fifth place in the ranking of the best cities in the world, according to the British magazine Monocle. And according to the New York Times, among the cities worth visiting, the capital of Finland is in second place, after Panama. In addition, Helsinki is recognized as one of the safest cities in the world - an international consulting company put it in fourth place on this list, the championship was given to Luxembourg, and Zurich and Bern were in second and third positions.
Tourists in Finland
The city of Helsinki, whose sights leave no one indifferent, is an ideal destination for tourists flocking to the capital of Finland from all over the world. Architectural masterpieces, historical monuments, rarities, as an integral part of world culture - all this attracts travelers.
Sights of Helsinki with a description of their history are included in numerous sightseeing tours. Guidebooks, which can be purchased at any kiosk, will help you plan your visits. The city of Helsinki, whose sights can be explored again and again, is a friendly and hospitable place. The impressions after the excursions will last a long time. And since it is impossible to see all exhibitions, museums, fairs and attend many other events in Helsinki in one visit, a return visit to Suomi is quite possible as part of a tourist trip.
The sights of Helsinki with a description of their history, architectural masterpieces and much more have made the capital of Finland a kind of mecca for tourism. Most cultural sites are located in the very center of the city; getting to know them does not present difficulties associated with movement, as happens in other
If you need to visit tourist sites in areas remote from the center, travelers have access to public transport, an ideally organized service for quick travel. Trams in the capital of Finland and in other cities of the country are subject to a minute-by-minute route schedule that is never violated. Comfortable carriages will take you to your destination quickly and comfortably. Traveling on public transport is quite expensive, but if you purchase a ticket for several landings, the cost of travel is significantly reduced. In addition, transport in Helsinki operates a system of group trips, when several people travel on one common ticket, and this method is also relatively inexpensive.
History and modernity
Finland, Helsinki, sights, the way of life of the population - everything that the country does is of keen interest to visitors; many do not have enough of a two-week tour to get acquainted with the history of the state and explore memorable places.
Travel agencies offer fascinating journeys through the centuries, to the ancient Finnish civilization, when architectural masterpieces were erected, characterized by northern restraint, minimalism and sophistication. Ancient buildings, churches and cathedrals of Helsinki, attractions, photographs of which can be found in guidebooks, booklets and special publications, are shrouded in the mystery of past centuries, but are nevertheless accessible today to the general public.
Architecture
Many buildings in the modernist style were built in Finland, but a visit to the architectural ensemble in the Art Nouveau style, the most complete in all of Northern Europe, leaves a special impression.
In the city center, especially within the Senate Square, there are unique masterpieces of neoclassical architecture. The largest Orthodox church - the Assumption Cathedral - reflects Byzantine-Russian architectural traditions.
The architectural masterpieces of Helsinki, attractions that have been reviewed by grateful tourists for many decades, occupy first positions in the ranking of world architecture. Many buildings in Finnish cities combine several styles, but the combination of neoclassicism and, for example, modernism is so organic that it gives the impression of some kind of new architecture. More recent architectural trends are represented by the High-Tech Center in the Ruoholahti area, the Sanomatalo building and the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.
Finland, sights of Helsinki in winter
The Scandinavian countries have a number of northern mainland characteristics. Sweden, Norway and Denmark are three Scandinavian countries (geographically). When Scandinavia is mentioned together with Finland, it is already called Fennoscandia.
Sights of Helsinki in winter are special tourist trips around the country. Dog sleds, light sleighs driven by a musher, reindeer racing - all this makes up a very interesting range of winter pastimes. What is the cost of the residence of Santa Claus in Lapland, the northernmost province of Finland, which is open to everyone who wants to visit the magical Santa Park. And after riding the rides, you can go to Mrs. Claus’s Gingerbread Kitchen and taste fragrant cookies.
In Helsinki, the sights in winter (tourist reviews are extremely positive) look special, the snow-white plains around, the dazzling purity of the snow are mesmerizing. Even architectural masterpieces look unusual under the snow.
Main attractions
In the center of Helsinki, the main attractions are located: the Presidential Palace, the National Library, and the Lutheran Cathedral of St. Nicholas, built in 1852. The merchant mansions are well preserved and currently house souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes.
And in the center of the square stands the monument to Alexander II, the Russian emperor, thanks to whom the Finnish people gained independence. The Tsar visited Finland 12 times, participated in solving state affairs of the country, hunted, and retired to the Valaam Monastery, which was located on the territory of the Grand Duchy of Finland. Under Alexander II, a railway was built in the country, connecting Helsinki and St. Petersburg.
Helsinki today
It is impossible to explore the city in a short time; the capital of Finland is full of ancient buildings, parks, museums and entertainment centers. For the youngest tourists there are excellent entertainment complexes, among which the Linnanmäki Amusement Park dominates. For adults, in addition to city excursions, there are many sea activities and excursions on ships.
A visit to historical memorials begins with the medieval one that defended Helsinki from enemies from the sea for many decades. The next historical exhibit is the Temppeliaukio Church, located right in the rock.
Tourists who prefer landscape beauty can visit the zoo, winter garden and the Marine Life center. Wildlife lovers will have an unforgettable experience visiting the island of Seurasaari, which is entirely populated by restless squirrels.
Visitors of any age will be pleased with a visit to the Eureka popular science center, which opens the way to the amazing secrets of the universe. Hundreds of exhibits from the fields of astronomy, chemistry, biology, and physics instantly capture the attention of tourists.
Particularly interesting is the monument to the composer, unusual in style, where the maestro is depicted in profile, against the backdrop of stylized organ pipes. The Great Finn represents his country.
Fine art of Finland
As in any other country, in Finland there are exhibition halls that offer visitors genuine national creativity. The central institution of this profile is the art museum in Helsinki called the Ateneum, which, together with the exhibition center Kiasma, represents the Finnish Gallery of National Art. The halls house huge collections of paintings, sculptures and other objects of Finnish fine art.
National Museum
The history of any state needs material reflection. In Helsinki, the National Museum, which houses the country's cultural heritage, plays the role of a repository of historical artifacts. Numerous exhibitions cover the period of development of Finland from ancient times to the present day.
In addition to stationary exhibitions, the museum periodically hosts local history exhibitions telling about the ethnography of the past and the prospects for the development of Finnish society. Services for tourists are provided in different languages, including Russian. At the museum there is a bookstore with literature about Finnish culture, also in different languages.
The museum's collection is the national treasure of the Finnish people; the entire evolution of the country can be traced through the exhibitions; the collections are distributed into thematic sectors, each of which is located in a separate room.
The largest department is the historical one, which is represented by archaeological artifacts found during excavations in Finland. The extensive exhibition covers several eras and cultural periods and is represented by numerous objects from the past. These are household items, weapons, jewelry, clothing, shoes, ceramics and bronze utensils.
The capital of Finland cannot boast of pompous, lush architecture, a large number of historical attractions or any particularly outstanding cultural heritage. However, Helsinki is a distinctive, atmospheric city and it definitely has its own charm.
City authorities welcome modern architectural projects. Thanks to this, tourists can admire the unusual Temppeliaukio Church and the Kamppi Chapel of Silence. The granite-clad embankments of the Finnish capital give way to discreet and majestic panoramas of the Baltic Sea, where cruise ships and ferries bob on the waters.
Helsinki is a solid, solid and prosperous city. There are no enchanting Gothic cathedrals and castles here, but there is incomparable Kiasma, strict northern nature and the triumph of common sense.
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What to see and where to go in Helsinki?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
Senate Square is one of the three central squares of the Finnish capital. Sights and main tourist routes are concentrated around it. The place is decorated with the architectural ensemble of the Cathedral, which was erected in the first half of the 19th century after Helsinki was declared the capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland. Inside the cathedral there is a monument to the founder of the Reformation - M. Luther.
A monument dedicated to the famous and revered Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Several streets, a music academy, and a city park are also named in honor of this outstanding historical figure. The monument was erected in 1967 according to the design of E. Hiltunen. This is an abstract composition, representing a pile of metal pipes and a bas-relief of the composer located at the foot.
City fountain, one of the symbols of the Finnish capital. The project was developed by sculptor V. Wallgren at the beginning of the 20th century. In the middle of the sculptural group there is a statue of a woman - a “sea nymph”, on the sides there are fabulous sea lions. It’s hard to believe, but before the installation of the monument, there were heated discussions for more than two years about the propriety of installing a naked figure in the city center.
A sea fort located on rocky islands near Helsinki. From the city center you can quickly get there by ferry. Sveaborg is the Swedish name; the Finns call the fortress Suomenlinna. The structure was erected in the middle of the 18th century at a time when Finland was part of Sweden. The fortress was a base for the Swedish fleet and protected the approaches to Helsinki.
An original temple located in a natural rock. The church is considered one of the most striking attractions of Helsinki. Thanks to the unusual architecture, a stunning acoustic effect is created in the church hall. The idea of progressive design belongs to the Suomalainen brothers. The temple was built in the 70s. XX century and quickly gained fame and popularity. Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Temppeliaukio Church every year.
Orthodox church, built according to the design of A.M. Gornostaev in the middle of the 19th century. The architectural style of the cathedral is a mixture of Byzantine style and traditions of Russian temple architecture. In 1872 it was given cathedral status. At the moment, the Assumption Cathedral in Helsinki is the largest Orthodox church in Western and Northern Europe.
The granite bulk of Kallio Church is often called a striking creation of the so-called “Finnish” Art Nouveau or “national romanticism”. This rather original structure appeared in 1912 and soon became the main attraction of the entire Kallio region. It is believed that the architect L. Sonck, when designing the building, took as a model the description of the Old Testament Temple of Solomon (including its impressive dimensions).
Lutheran church of the late 19th century, a grandiose creation of the Swedish architect A. Melander. It was built on the spot where the pagan holiday of Ivan Kupala was always celebrated. The church is very impressive in size - 2,600 people can fit inside at a time. The building was built in the “standard” neo-Gothic style, the interior space is decorated with wooden decor, which was worked on by the best Finnish craftsmen.
The modern building, erected in 2012 according to the design of M. Summanen, N. Sirol and K. Lintul, is an interesting and striking example of the latest architecture in Helsinki. The chapel is not a temple in the usual sense; services are not held here, but on its territory you can get psychological help or simply take a break from the bustle and oppressive city space.
Museum of the History of Finland, where you can trace the development of the land of Suomi (as the Finns call their state) from ancient times to the modern period. The museum exhibitions are quite extensive - from clay shards to the thrones of rulers, from medieval weapons to the technical achievements of Nokia. The museum was opened to visitors in 1916.
The museum's exhibitions demonstrate the achievements of Finnish applied art. Exhibitions, international events, and demonstrations of fashion collections of young designers are often held here. The museum was founded in 1873 as a workshop for teaching applied arts. Now this place is considered one of the best modern creative venues in Europe.
One of the three largest national museums in Finland. The exhibition, dedicated to natural history and evolution, is located on four floors. Among the especially valuable artifacts are fossil exhibits that are more than a thousand years old. The collection is divided into four parts: “The History of Life”, “The Nature of Finland”, “The History of Bones”, “The Nature of the World”.
The museum is located in the city of Vantaa near the Finnish capital. It is an interactive gaming, educational and entertainment center where visitors of different ages can conduct experiments, explore the nature of physical phenomena and simply have a good time. More complex experiments can be carried out in museum “laboratories” under the guidance of specialists.
An art gallery housing a rich collection of works of art. A special place is given to the paintings of Finnish artists - representatives of the Golden Age period in national art. There are also works by recognized world classics: Van Gogh, P. Gauguin, Modigliani, Degas, F. Goya, Cezanne and others. The collection contains a large number of paintings by Russian artists: Levitan, Shishkin, Repin, Polenov.
A grandiose museum of contemporary art, located in a monumental building of modern architecture. The museum specializes in collecting works by Finnish masters and artists from surrounding countries. Often many works are created by order of Kiasma. Now the museum’s collection numbers about 9 thousand exhibits, but the funds are continuously replenished and the exhibition is growing.
The museum is located on the island of the same name west of Helsinki. There are similar exhibitions in many European countries; they are designed to introduce tourists to the traditional way of life and the life of the local population. In Seurasaari you can see wooden dwellings of villagers, Finnish saunas, outbuildings, mills, and religious buildings brought from all over the country.
The square was formed at the beginning of the 19th century. Since then, there has been a market here, popular with visitors to Helsinki and local residents. On the square you can buy souvenirs, fresh food, excellent fish, and also have a delicious lunch. Ferries depart from here to Suomenlinna. An obelisk in honor of the Russian Empress Alexandra Feodorovna was erected on the square.
Shopping arcades on the shores of the South Bay, located in an elegant brick building of the 19th century. The market offers a large selection of meat, fish, seafood, bread, and a variety of baked goods. There is also a local specialty shop and a sushi restaurant. The old indoor market is a rather atmospheric place with carved wooden stalls, small shops and friendly sellers.
The relatively small building of the capital's railway station is an architectural monument of the early 20th century. It was built according to the design of the architect E. Saarinen. The Art Nouveau facade is decorated with figures of stone giants created by E. Wikström. Numerous commuter and long-distance trains depart from the station to various European countries and Russia.
A water park in the suburbs of Helsinki, which is open to the public all year round. Quite a lot of slides are located in the open air, and during the cool Finnish summer you can often see children frolicking in the water at a temperature of only +19 °C. When purchasing an All Inclusive ticket, you can enter all attractions, bar and restaurant (alcohol for a fee).
An oceanarium located in the northern part of the Finnish capital. Sea Life aquariums feature a wide variety of marine life: stingrays, sharks, corals, jellyfish, seahorses, exotic tropical fish, and inhabitants of the harsh northern seas. Group excursions around the aquarium are offered in Finnish, Swedish and English. The guide also contains information in Russian.
An amusement and amusement park, quite popular among tourists and local residents. Up to a million visitors come to Linnanmäki every year. Carousels and park rides are manufactured in leading European countries and meet the latest safety requirements. There are several free attractions for children in the park.
The zoo is located on the island of the same name. It was founded in 1889 by A. Fabritius. The first inhabitants of the zoo were bears. The territory of Korkeasaari is home to snow leopards, which are now on the verge of extinction. In addition to the magnificent northern animals, at the zoo you can admire reptiles, tropical birds, and representatives of exotic fauna.
The garden is located near the central part of Helsinki. Rose gardens have been laid out in the park, greenhouses and a system of artificial ponds have been created. In summer, the garden turns into a magnificent blooming and fragrant canvas. Thematic events, various exhibitions, competitions, and actions to protect nature are regularly held on its territory.
City park, Finnish Champs Elysees and one of the favorite places for walks for local residents and guests of Helsinki. Here you can have a great rest between visiting the many shops and attractions of the Finnish capital. In the eastern part of the Esplanade there is a small concert venue where progressive musical groups perform in the summer.
A week, let alone a few days, is certainly not enough to get to know all the sights of Helsinki. After all, the capital of Finland was literally filled with various parks, ancient buildings, all kinds of entertainment centers and museums. Even children will not get bored - they are always waiting for them in an amazing place - the Linnanmäki amusement park. Adding sea excursions to the above, you can understand that it will take at least a month to get to know Helsinki closely. Why not come here again?
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You can start with the usual excursion program. Lovers of museums and attractions are recommended to visit Sveaborg and Temppeliaukio, connoisseurs of natural beauty - the winter garden, Sea Life, the famous zoo and the island of Seurasaari. All travelers will certainly enjoy Eureka, a scientific center where you can solve the most amazing mysteries of the world. Also not to be missed is the monument to Sibelius, which excites so many. So, we’ll tell you about the most popular attractions in Helsinki.
Sveaborg is one of Helsinki's most unforgettable attractions. There are also a couple of museums here: architecture connoisseurs will be attracted by buildings that belong to different styles; those interested in the military sphere will find a variety of different military equipment that belong to several periods of Sveaborg’s existence. The appearance of this fortress is amazing, so even an ordinary walk will bring a lot of pleasure.
The following museums are presented here:
- Ehrensvärd Museum
- military museum
- Customs Museum (free entry)
- Suomenlinna Museum
- toy museum
- boat "Vesikko"
Sveaborg is located on an island 2 km from Helsinki, so it can only be reached by water. For example, ferries called HKL depart from Kauppatori from 1 to 4 times per hour, depending on the season. The first ferry leaves at 9:00, the last one at 18:00. These tickets are purchased at the river station, the cost of one (one way) fluctuates around 5 EUR. From May to September you can also go from the market square. It is from here, from Kolera-allas, that the JT-Line trams depart, which also stop near the Royal Gate. It is possible to purchase tickets either on board or at the pier.
There is no way to rent bicycles here, and you can also forget about public transport, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for the tour. The fortress is open daily from 10:30 to 16:30, and guided tours can be booked in advance, running on Saturdays and Sundays. Entrance to Sveaborg is free, you only need to pay for travel and entrance to the museums themselves.
Temppeliaukio
Many churches attract the attention of travelers due to their enormous size, ancient elements or architectural style. However, Temppeliaukio stands out from other churches. This temple is fraught with many other advantages. From the outside it may seem that the church looks like a fallen plate. The vision is especially intensified in the evening, when the lights are turned on. Sometimes it seems that this UFO has dropped in on the Finns. Interestingly, there are no bells; instead, pre-recorded audio is played directly from the speakers. Temppeliaukio is known for its unsurpassed acoustics; comments are unnecessary, because even Mstislav Rostropovich liked it.
Thanks to its unique acoustics, various performances of classical and organ music often take place here. It happens that metal bands also perform in Temppeliaukio. This is exactly how clergy are trying to draw the attention of young people to the spiritual sphere. After all, in Temppeliaukio they perform some fragments of the Lutheran liturgy, and not ordinary songs. Many performances are free.
The fortress can be easily found at the following address: Lutherinkatu, 3.
Open from Monday to Wednesday - from 10:00 to 17:00, on Tuesday - from 10:00 to 12:45 and from 14:15 to 17:00, from Thursday to Friday - from 10:00 to 20:00, on Saturday - from 10:00 to 18:00 and on Sunday - from 11:45 to 13:45 and from 15:30 to 18:00. You can visit the church for free.
Winter Garden
There is a wonderful place where you can hide from the gloomy days, make an appointment or take a break. This is a garden located on the banks of Töölönlahti, near the tower of the Olympic Stadium. 3 halls of this blooming beauty, where you can admire more than 200 plants or a pond with fish and enjoy the general atmosphere, will easily lift your spirits. Plants are collected in several thematic rooms - for example, in the palm and cactus rooms. Here, colorful parrots vying with each other to discuss the guests of the winter garden, and decorative carp swim nearby.
It is interesting to find yourself here in the winter season, when the snow-covered cold streets give way to alleys of fancy plants. The well-kept territory of the Winter Garden overlooks the Töölönlahti district itself. Not far from it is the old district of Linnunlaulu, interesting with ancient cottages decorated with carvings. Tourists often have the feeling that they have teleported to another country. The winter garden is located at Hammarskjoldintie 1A. The garden is open to the public every day, except Monday, until 15:00. The visit is free - this is exactly what the major general who created the greenhouse in the 19th century decided.
Zoo
Korkeassari is located on an amazing island and is the oldest existing zoo. His collection of plants and animals is very surprising, numbering many varieties and somewhat reminiscent of a small imitation of the world. Walking through Korkeassari, tourists conquer mountain peaks, explore the Finnish lowlands, travel through the tundra and incredible jungle. People walk here for days, and yet they don’t get bored.
Koorkessari is divided into certain areas. For example, in the Amazon you can observe the fauna of South America, and in Africa you can get acquainted with various animals of the tropical forests. The bridge connects the island to the mainland. In order to get to Korkeiassari you need to take a bus (No. 11), which departs from the railway station (20 minutes, platform 8). Also, from May to September, you can get here by ferry. This zoo is located at the following address: Helsinki Zoo Mustikkamaanpolku, 12, 00570 Helsinki.
Open year-round from May to August from 10:00 to 20:00, and from October to March from 10:00 to 16:00. At other times - from 10:00 to 18:00. For an adult, a ticket will cost 12 EUR, for children from 4 to 17 years old - 6 EUR. Children under 4 years old are admitted free of charge. You can buy a ticket for pensioners and students; its cost is 8 EUR.
Marine center Sea life
Who wants to plunge into the underwater kingdom that can be found in the heart of Helsinki? Those interested are highly recommended to visit Sea Life, which is located near Linnanmäki, a famous amusement park. Why not visit “Sea life” after a holiday in “Linnanmäki”? Sea life is a huge reservoir that includes more than 50 aquariums. These aquariums are home to various marine life. For example, in aquariums there are coral-red fish, sharks, and jellyfish. All inhabitants are located in a special reservoir, in a glassed corridor located above the visitors.
Dangerous sharks swim serenely above tourists. It’s interesting that the walls of “Sea life” are transparent, which gives you an incredible feeling of immersion in the sea. This “immersion” is completely safe, so you don’t have to worry. "Sea life" is located at Tivolitie, 10. From the central station the building can be reached by tram (No. 9, 3) or by bus (No. 23).
“Sea life” is open every day until 17:00, and on Wednesdays until 19:00. A child ticket will cost almost 13 EUR, and an adult ticket – 17 EUR. Pensioners and students can visit the maritime center for 14 EUR. It is profitable to purchase a family pass, which costs 55 EUR.
Design Museum
In past centuries, design was not considered an independent art direction. Today, the Museum can demonstrate a whole collection of its art objects. It is on par with the best European creative venues. In addition, various exhibitions are constantly held here, dedicated to both the history of design and popular new trends and contemporary art. The funds of this Museum are very rich, because it stores approximately 100 thousand unique drawings, the best photographs and complex drawings. More than 1,000 designers have registered in its archives.
The Design Museum is located in the heart of Helsinki, close to the famous architecture museum. Nearby is Johanneksen kirkko, a stop that can be reached at a leisurely pace in a couple of minutes. You can also get to the building by bus (No. 24) or tram (No. 10). It is located at the following address: Korkeavuorenkatu, 23. In summer, the museum is open daily from 11:00 to 18:00, and from September to May from 11:00 to 20:00 (mainly on Tuesdays); from 13:00 to 18:00 - from Wednesday to Sunday, and Monday is declared a day off.
Adults purchase a ticket for 10 EUR, students – 5 EUR, pensioners – 8 EUR, schoolchildren can enter the museum for free.
Museum of Contemporary Art "Kiasma"
“Kiasma” cannot easily be called an ordinary museum. It is more reminiscent of a creative platform that unites different areas of art and contains areas such as spatial installations and even ordinary art exhibitions. Initially, the idea of Kiasma was not a simple demonstration of advanced art, but the formation of a huge center that could unite many art lovers, as well as young promising artists.
Kiasma contains approximately 30 galleries of various profiles. For example, in one you can get acquainted with video installations, in another - with the best works of art, in the third - with unusual multifaceted architectural solutions or avant-garde music. The museum is located on Mannerheiminaukio, a square located near the Mannerheim monument. Elielinaukio is the closest stop, serving many bus routes. The building can be found at Mannerheiminaukio 2.
The museum is open on Tuesdays - from 10:00 to 17:00, Wednesdays-Fridays - from 10:00 to 20:30, Saturdays - from 10:00 to 18:00, Sundays - from 10:00 to 17:00, weekends Monday is recognized as the day. The ticket price ranges around 12 EUR, minors are admitted free of charge. You can also get in free of charge on the 1st Friday of any month from 10:00 to 20:30.
Popular Science Center "Eureka"
Eureka is a scientific center located near Helsinki. More than 100 thousand travelers come here every year. The excursion is a journey into the amazing world of science. Here you can get acquainted with many exhibits related to the field of physics, astronomy, biology, and chemistry. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to conduct chemical experiments, participate in paper production, and find answers to mathematical riddles.
Your child will really enjoy Vattenfall, a planetarium with a huge 3D screen that shows entertaining science films. Here, the curious will reach the stars, find out what will happen to the Earth if the sun goes out, and solve the riddle of the birth of the Universe. The films are also translated into Russian. Also, some parents leave their children at the center for several days. After all, for those who have not yet reached the age of 13, there is a camp here. Teenagers discuss educational films and attend excursions.
Getting to Eureka is not difficult: take the train to Tikkurila, then walk a couple of hundred meters from this station. "Eureka" is located at the following address: Kuninkaalantie, 5.
From Monday to Wednesday the center is open from 10:00 to 17:00, on Thursday from 10:00 to 20:00, on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. Adults can purchase a ticket for 22 EUR, pensioners for 15 EUR.
National Museum of Finland
This museum is considered a fairly impressive “warehouse” of the country’s cultural heritage. Its rich components cover almost the entire period of development of Finland from antiquity to the present day. In addition to the main exhibitions, there are also temporary exhibitions dedicated to ethnography, cultural heritage, and local history of Finland. In addition, Russian-speaking visitors are also served here. Is there not enough material provided? Auxiliary bibliography can always be purchased at the store located in the same building.
The museum's exhibition is divided into 6 parts. They display collections of medals, coins, insignia and orders, weapons, jewelry and silver. This building was designed by the country's famous architects; it is very reminiscent of medieval Finnish castles. The museum is located in the center of Helsinki, in the amazing Matthias Lehto. Nearby you can find the popular Finlandia Hall. Between them is the Kansallismuseo stop. It is crossed by such routes as No. 4T, 4, 7B, 7A, 10. The museum is located at the following address: Mannerheimintie, 34.
The National Museum is open from 11:00 to 18:00, Monday is considered a day off. The entry price for pensioners is around 7 EUR, adults – 10 EUR, minors can enter for free. Every Friday from 16:00 to 18:00 the museum can also be visited for free.
Monument to Sibelius
Jean Sibelius, a composer, was very famous during his lifetime. He was the author of the national anthem, which was banned during the reign of Nicholas II. Residents carefully preserve the memory of such a great compatriot and perpetuate his memory in memorial plaques, street names, and monuments. The most visited monument was founded exactly 10 years after the death of Sibelius, in the 20th century. It is a structure made of steel pipes that are welded in a wavy pattern. Eila Hiltunen, the author of this monument, tried in her work to reflect the essence of the composer’s music. This monument can be reminiscent of organ pipes, which are positioned in such a way that with a particular blow of the wind, some people should recognize the most famous compositions of Cielius.
Not far from the famous monument there is a sculptural portrait of the composer. The monument was erected in a beautiful park, which, by the way, bears the name of the composer. This creation is a frequently visited place by travelers in Helsinki. Interestingly, a mini-version of this exhibition is located in the UNESCO building (Paris). Also, a work that is conceptually reminiscent of the Sibelius monument can be found in the UN building (New York). It is located near the Toolo area, its exact address is Merikantovagen, 00250 Helsinki.
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Local residents believe that the best attractions can be found in this park. Maybe this is just a publicity stunt designed to attract travelers. Even if this is so, the trick works perfectly: the park's annual profit is approximately 4.5 million euros. Those who wish to challenge or confirm this belief are offered only one way - to visit Linnanmäki in person. Today there are a little more than 40 attractions installed in the park area. One of the most famous is Vuoristorata - the symbol of Linnanmäki. The oldest attraction is the Carousel, it was built at the end of the 19th century.
The attractions actually surprise you with their reality. For example, what are the dizzying roller coasters, the room of fear or the “Dead Loop” worth? There is also a special room for gamers - children can play various games while parents spend time in the cafe. The park is located in the city center, namely at the following address: Tivolikuja, 1. It is easy to get there by bus (No. 23) or tram (No. 3T, 3B, 8). In addition, you can rent a parking space here, it will cost 2 EUR per 1 hour.
Cities such as Tampere, Porvoo, Kouvola, Hämeenlinna, Valkeakoski, Lahti, Kotka are easily accessible by ExpressBus, which stops close to the entertainment center itself.
Linnanmäki operates from April to October, and its flexible schedule can be tracked directly on the official website. The bracelet can be purchased at the box office at the following prices: in autumn – 37 EUR, in summer – 39 EUR; evening – 30 EUR. After purchasing a bracelet, you are allowed to enter all attractions. The cost of a ticket for any attraction ranges around 8 EUR.
St. Nicholas Cathedral
One of the main attractions of Helsinki and the calling card of the city is deservedly the majestic St. Nicholas Cathedral. A grandiose snow-white temple rises on the central Senate Square of the capital of Finland. The church was erected in the middle of the 19th century and consecrated in honor of the heavenly patron of the Russian Emperor Nicholas I - St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The religious building was built in accordance with the canons of Orthodoxy, but currently the cathedral belongs to the Lutheran Church.
The temple's plan is an equilateral cross, the tops of which are crowned with five green domes. The massive central dome, mounted on a high drum, is surrounded along the perimeter by four onion-shaped domes. Each side of the facade of the temple is decorated with porticoes with triangular pediments and columns of the Corinthian order, as well as bas-relief images of scenes from the life of Christ. The abundance of decorative architectural elements gives the white stone structure a special solemnity. Three-meter-tall sculptures of the twelve apostles are installed above each pediment.
The interior decoration of the temple is striking in its modest appearance. There are no icons, wall or ceiling paintings here. Particularly noteworthy are the arched vaults, chandeliers, columns, statues in niches and the altar painting. The main hall has wooden benches for parishioners. The pride of the cathedral is its ancient organ.
Assumption Cathedral
One of the largest Orthodox churches in Northern Europe is located in the capital of Finland. This is the Assumption Cathedral, founded in 1868. The grandiose structure attracts tourists from all over the world. The temple was built of red brick in the Byzantine style using characteristic elements of ancient Russian architecture. The expressive structure rises on a rocky hill in the middle of a picturesque park surrounded by lilac bushes. The total height of the cathedral is about 50 meters.
The church is square in plan. It is crowned with thirteen domes, symbolizing the twelve apostles led by Jesus Christ. The bulbs of the chapters are covered with gilding. The temple is connected by a multi-stage covered gallery with a three-tier bell tower. The outer walls of the cathedral are decorated with intricate relief patterns, projections, recesses and arches.
The interiors of the temple are mesmerizing with their beauty. The surfaces of the vaulted ceilings, arches and cornices are richly painted with bright ornaments, Old Slavonic sayings and faces of saints. Powerful polished columns are carved from granite. The main dome from the inside is designed in the form of a starry sky. In the prayer hall there is a two-tier iconostasis decorated with gilded carvings. You can look for a long time at the picturesque large panel depicting the scene of the birth of Christ and a considerable number of ancient icons.
Chapel of Silence Kamppi
In one of the busy squares in the central district of Helsinki, Kampli, next to shopping and business buildings, stands an unusual windowless wooden structure. An architectural structure that looks like a bowl or an egg is called the Chapel of Silence. Its walls are lined with panels made of different types of wood: ash, alder and spruce.
The Chapel of Silence has nothing to do with objects of religious and cultural significance. This place gives visitors the opportunity to be alone with their thoughts and enjoy a calm atmosphere. The special environment contributes to detachment from the worldly bustle and noise of the metropolis. The building can accommodate about sixty people at a time.
There are wooden benches inside the room. Daylight enters through small openings in the ceiling. Divine services are not held in the chapel, but here tourists can see a prayer pulpit and a collection of biblical books.
Hietaniemi Cemetery
Hietaniemi is an ancient cemetery complex located in the green park area of Helsinki along the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Finland. The territory is divided into areas for Orthodox, Lutheran, Jewish and Muslim burials. The cemetery is the resting place of many famous Finnish personalities: writers, actors, composers, artists, politicians and military personnel.
Original tombstones and monuments are located among well-groomed shady alleys of tall, ancient trees with lush crowns. Visitors to the mournful complex can relax in one of the public gardens, favored by squirrels, hares and even foxes.
Fountain Havis Amanda
A famous landmark of the capital of Finland is the Havis Amanda fountain, installed on Esplanade Boulevard at the beginning of the 20th century. The central part of the fountain is crowned with a bronze sculpture of a naked sea nymph standing on a pedestal bowl surrounded by fish and fur seals. The height of the monument is five meters.
According to the author of the sculptural composition, the charming naked maiden symbolizes the birth of the city of Helsinki. The young girl seems to be coming onto land from the depths of the sea. She coquettishly arched her neck and shamelessly turned her lower back towards the city administration.
Today, the Havis Amanda fountain is popular with both tourists and local citizens. On the first of May, students place a white cap on the nymph's head and cheerfully celebrate the national Finnish holiday - Vappu Day.
Central station
The neo-Gothic style Helsinki Central Railway Station attracts the attention of every tourist. The monumental architectural ensemble is the main transport hub of the city and a recognizable monument of the capital of Finland. From here trains, electric trains and buses depart to all directions of the country.
The station building was erected in 1914 according to the design of the famous Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. The new building originally served as a hospital during the outbreak of the First World War. Five years later, the building began to fulfill its direct functions as a railway station. The facade of the architectural composition is made of red granite stone without any ornaments.
The building is topped with a tall clock tower and decorated with monumental statues of Atlanteans. Two pairs of giant stone sculptures stand at the main entrance. Severe Scandinavian athletes hold large lanterns in the form of spherical balls in their hands. An impressive arch with a clock rises above the central entrance. The spacious halls are filled with convenient modern infrastructure necessary to serve passengers.
Seurasaari Museum Island
A few kilometers from the center of Helsinki is a favorite place for tourists and townspeople - the island of Seurasaari. This is an educational open-air ethnographic museum, the exhibits of which are masterpieces of wooden architecture of Finnish villages of past centuries. The island is connected to the mainland by a long pedestrian bridge.
In Seurasaari, huts, manors, sheds, mills, barns, stables and other buildings from different historical periods were erected. Tourists can get acquainted with the traditional way of life of the inhabitants of Finnish villages, as well as see household items in the interior decoration of some houses. This region is famous for its pristine picturesque landscapes.
Ancient buildings are surrounded by majestic pine and spruce trees with lush crowns. The rich wildlife gives the island a special charm. The forest reserve is home to squirrels, hares, foxes, geese and a variety of birds. The park's terrain promotes a calm and serene walk in the lap of nature.
Town Hall
Between the Torgovaya and Senate squares of the capital, the beautiful historical building of the city hall rises. The three-story mansion was built in 1833. Initially, the architectural creation was intended for a hotel and a trading exchange. Various social events and ceremonial balls were held in the spacious halls of the mansion.
The palace has served as the seat of the municipality since 1930. The light blue facade is decorated with pilasters, a portico with six columns, a triangular pediment and numerous windows. Anyone can enter the town hall. For tourists, there is a bureau providing information about the sights of Helsinki. Exhibitions of works of art by contemporary Finnish artists are regularly held on the ground floor of the palace.
John's Church
The Gothic Lutheran Church of St. John attracts guests to the capital of Finland. The temple, built at the end of the 19th century from red brick, is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Helsinki. Its dimensions are striking in its size - the length of the building is 59 meters. The church hall can accommodate more than 2,500 people.
The appearance of the cathedral evokes a feeling of admiration. Two slender towers with spiers rise 74 meters high. The characteristic Gothic architectural details that abundantly decorate the façade of the cathedral are interesting. These are openwork rose windows, pointed arches, pinnacles, narrow window openings, chimeras and three portals with ornaments.
The interiors of St. John's Church are noteworthy. The arcade gallery with massive columns especially stands out in the interior decoration. Here you can also see a carved wooden pulpit, a skillfully decorated altar with a picturesque panel, chandeliers and many benches for parishioners.
Monument to Alexander II
In the center of Senate Square there is a monument to Emperor Alexander II, a highly revered and respected Russian autocrat. The opening of the sculpture took place in 1894, and was timed to coincide with the birthday of the monarch. During the reign of Alexander II, Finland received the status of broad autonomy within the Russian Empire. This contributed to the growth of the economy and the development of the national cultural identity of the Finns.
The tsar's political decision was a unique precedent in Europe in the 19th century. By decree of the emperor, a constitution was approved, establishing the rights of the Finns to their political system. The height of the bronze monument is more than three meters. The figure of the emperor is mounted on a pedestal made of red granite.
Around the pedestal there are allegorical sculptures symbolizing Law, Peace, Light and Labor. The statue of Alexander II is dressed in the uniform of a guards officer and precedes the entrance to the wide staircase leading to the Cathedral.
Finnish National Gallery
When getting to know the cultural heritage of Finland, tourists should pay attention to museums, the number of which will impress true art connoisseurs. The pride of Helsinki is the Finnish National Art Gallery. This is a large museum complex consisting of three thematic departments: “Atheneum”, “Kiasma” and the Sinebryukhov Museum. All of them are located in different places of the city.
An impressive collection of painting masterpieces by outstanding Finnish, Russian and European artists is kept in the Athenaeum Museum. The exhibition was opened to the public in 1887. There are numerous works of art on display here, spanning the period from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. The gallery contains paintings by Repin, Van Gogh, Shishkin, Polenov, Modigliani, Chagall, Cezanne, Gauguin, Simberg, Rissanen and other equally famous painters.
Exhibits of contemporary Finnish and foreign art are housed in the Kiasma Museum. This is the abode of avant-garde and informal embodiments of artistic ideas. Paintings, photographs, sculptures and various objects for installation are exhibited in numerous rooms. In the museum named after the merchant Sinebryukhov, the collection of paintings by Western European artists, antique furniture and precious interior items is of interest.
The halls are furnished with luxurious and unique exhibits made in the 18th-19th centuries. Of great interest are numerous silver, porcelain and glass items, vases, dishes, watches, mahogany furniture, sculptural compositions, as well as ancient Orthodox icons. The walls are decorated with paintings by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Hals and other representatives of the classical school of painting.
Presidential palace
Among the historical architectural ensemble of the Helsinki Market Square, the most important government building stands out - the Presidential Palace. The elegant three-story mansion was built in 1818 and was originally the property of one of the richest merchants in Finland. A quarter of a century later, the majestic building, built in the classicist style, became the residence of governors general and then Russian emperors.
Since 1919, after the declaration of independence of Finland, the palace began to serve as the official representation of the country's presidents. The appearance of the palace complex is distinguished by restrained modesty without unnecessary pompous decorations typical of royal residences. The beige facade of the building has a six-column portico, a triangular pediment and an arched central entrance.
Finnish National Theater
Not far from the Helsinki railway station there is a building no less popular among tourists - the Finnish National Theater. The building attracts attention with its appearance. The architectural creation of the 20th century resembles a medieval castle, as clearly evidenced by the blank granite walls, side projections, pointed towers, columns, lancet windows, arched openings and high red roofs.
The history of the founding of the national theater is inextricably linked with the development of the cultural identity of the people of Finland. It was one of the first institutions where dramatic plays and operas were staged exclusively in Finnish. Today, the theater is a favorite place for cultural pastime for city residents. His repertoire consists of classical and modern productions that excite audiences.
Athenaeum Art Museum
The National Gallery of Finland complex includes the Ateneum art museum. The institution is named after the ancient Greek patroness of science and craft. The history of the foundation of the museum dates back to 1887, when Emperor Nicholas II donated 18 paintings to the Finnish Association of Artists. The halls of the Renaissance palace are filled with an impressive collection of works of art by European and Russian artists.
These are paintings by Edgar Degas, Francisco Goya, Ivan Shishkin, Ilya Repin, Marc Chagall, Paul Cezanne, Amedeo Modigliani and other masters. Visitors to the Ateneum Gallery will be interested in seeing valuable artistic works by internationally recognized Finnish painters such as Hugo Simberg, Pekki Halonen, Helena Schjerfbeck, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Albert Edelfelt.
Finnish National Opera
On the shore of Töölö Bay there is a modern snow-white building with an unusual appearance. This is the national opera and ballet theater, on whose stages about 300 performances are staged annually. The state cultural institution was built in 1993. Contrary to generally accepted ideas about the architecture of theater buildings, the Finnish opera is distinguished by its discreet façade. The structure is characterized by straight geometric lines, square shapes, cold glass and the absence of any decorative elements.
The spacious auditorium with exemplary acoustics and high ceiling can accommodate 1,350 people. The rows of wide seats are located as conveniently as possible for viewing the stage from anywhere in the hall. The technical equipment of the theater venue, the skill of the ballet and opera troupes, and the professional symphony orchestra allow the National Theater to be one of the leading institutions in Europe.
House of Music
A popular cultural center is the Helsinki Music House, founded in 2011. The modern cubic glass architectural structure fits harmoniously into the landscape of the Töölö Bay embankment. In front of the building there is a well-groomed green lawn and park area. The complex is famous for its five multifunctional concert venues, where classical symphony orchestras, various musical groups, dance and choral groups perform.
The perfect acoustics of the halls allow spectators to enjoy the first-class sound of musical instruments and the voices of artists. The main hall of the complex can accommodate 1,700 people. Rows of chairs are located around the stage and rise from it in an amphitheater. Wooden materials are used in the interior design of the House of Music, which improves the acoustic characteristics of the halls.
Amos Anderson Museum of Art
An impressive collection of Finnish artistic works and valuable interior objects from the 20th century is presented at the Amos Anderson Museum. Its exhibition halls have been open for cultural education of visitors since 1965. The exhibits are housed in a six-story apartment building that previously belonged to the famous Finnish entrepreneur, philanthropist and passionate art admirer Amos Anderson.
He made a significant contribution to the treasury of Finnish national culture. Amos generously provided financial support to artists, musicians, and the theater community. The basis of the museum fund is the personal collection of works of art of the entrepreneur. About 7,000 exhibits are exhibited in the gallery halls.
These are paintings, sculptures, photographs and various household items that once filled Anderson’s apartments. Of greatest interest are antique furniture sets, as well as picturesque panels by European and Finnish impressionist masters of the 20th century.
Agricole Church
The Agricole Church is a characteristic architectural structure of Scandinavian Art Nouveau, which is characterized by laconic forms. The temple, erected in the 30s of the 20th century, is named in honor of Bishop Mikael Agricopa, the founder of Finnish writing. The ascetic facade of the church is made of dark red brick. The main attention of tourists is focused on the church tower. It rises hundreds of meters into the air and dominates the cityscape of Helsinki.
The main hall of the church seats more than 800 parishioners. The interiors of the cathedral are decorated with an arched gallery with massive columns, a vaulted ceiling, hanging brass chandeliers and a picturesque altar painting. Through narrow high window openings daylight penetrates, scattering through the center of the hall.