1. Helsinki Cathedral
Helsinki cathedral, a Lutheran church, is built during 1830s by the square close to the fish market. It’s an iconic landmark of Helsinki, and it is free to enter. If you are lucky, you might encounter a free performance. Toilets are for 1 euro, and there’s a small church cafe outside the church. You will find souvenirs too (but not cheap).
My Experience
Though the church is popular amongst tourists, personally it didn’t leave much impact on me. But it is easy to find it… I guess it is still worthwhile to go!
2. The Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church)
I always get the spelling of this church wrong. (Try to spell it!) It really impressed me that the design of this church was made in 1930s. That’s just so incredible. Oh, toilet is also for 1 euro.
(my photo is missing…. I’ll update this part later… haha)
My Experience
I’ve seen quite many pictures of it on the internet before I went. I picked a time when there was a piano concert (free). Although sometimes other tourists made noises and sorta make you crazy, it is a beautiful church and I wish I could attend Sunday service here. It’s just so beautiful. And I like the fact that this beautiful church brings lots of tourists (non-Christian) to the church. I’m sure many people have never been to a church before.
3. Uspenski Cathedral Helsinki
You will see this orthodox church when you walk from your ferry terminal to the city center. It’s quite easy to find.
The interior of this church isn’t big. (The building looks big from outside). And it is has drawings of some saints. I don’t think they are only the apostles of Jesus. I think there are many more. But again I haven’t really studied orthodox (I should). Umm. This is what I saw.
My Experience
I don’t know why but I didn’t like it so much. Maybe it was just ‘another church’ for me. But hey, it wasn’t out of your way, and it’s free. I guess it is still a worthwhile experience to take a look of what’s inside.
4. Kamppi Chapel (Chapel of Silence)
Comparing to Uspenski Cathedral, I clearly have more affection towards Kamppi chapel. It’s not really a tourist attraction as it’s so small. But I simply love its simplicity.
http://www.helsinginkirkot.fi/fi/kirkot/kampin-kappeli
Located in the busy area of Kamppi, this small chapel is like an oasis. A house of prayer. If you don’t know what it is, you might just pass it thinking it’s a city art (ark?).
My Experience
Chapel of Silence is really small, but you can sit there as long as you need. For me it was a really nice ending with my trip in Finland. I think the church is Helsinki is doing an awesome job to connect people to God. I love its creativity. And I found something really special there….
Bibles in many languages! How cool is that! I really love this place, and our God who is our Heavenly Father.
Traveling Mega
