The capital of Finland might not be the first place travelers think of when they want to explore notable architecture; however, it’s a largely undiscovered jewel of design and worthy of a leisurely stay. Here are a few can’t-miss places to visit:
Temppeliaukio Church, opened in the late 1960s, is an architectural wonder carved into rock, with natural sunlight through skylights around a copper dome roof providing illumination, per the design of Finnish architects Timo Suomalainen and Tuomo Suomalainen. The exposed and unfinished walls are acoustically appealing, not to mention breathtaking for their natural beauty, and this Lutheran Church also welcomes guests for musical performances, with a seating capacity of more than 700.
Finlandia Hall, in Finlandia Park, is a multi-purpose concert hall and conference space designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. It’s a visually stunning place to visit, made of marble and granite outside, and marble, beech, and oak inside. Strong modern exterior angles belie a gently sloping roof and curved interior walls of the concert space; with its parquet floors, it’s light, airy, and open, as well as acoustically magnificent.
The Kamppi Chapel, a Lutheran chapel in Narinkka Square designed by K2S Architects, is a popular attraction in Helsinki. Its absolute minimalist design encourages quiet reflection. The chapel holds no church services; instead, it’s open to visitors seeking prayerful contemplation; with wood-lined walls and no windows except the skylights far above, it’s a notable exercise in shutting out distractions.
Other must-see architectural landmarks of Helsinki include:
- The National Museum of Finland, completed roughly 100 years ago, is reminiscent of a fairy tale castle from the outside. It was designed by Herman Gesellius, Armas Lindgren, and Eliel Saarinen.
- Kaisa House at the University of Helsinki, a library designed by Anttinen Oiva Arkkitehdit Oy, is is highly modern in its aesthetic, and the grand circular staircase is perhaps the most dramatic element.
Helsinki is an architecture aficcionado’s dream destination, where art and design showcase form and function in creative and practical ways that make the most of natural resources and geography.
