Candles along the rock walls
Progressive design
In 1961, the Finnish architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen submitted the winning design. The jury found the idea to be ‘completely original’ and was pleased with the proposal in which the original rocks could remain in place to some degree. However, the residents of Helsinki were not as enthusiastic about the design and preferred a traditional chapel. The ‘Rock Church’ was too reminiscent of a mosque or even a ‘diabolical bunker’. Due to the resistance, construction did not begin until 1968. After the completion and inauguration of the church one year later, it did not take long before Temppeliaukio was embraced by all and the church became one of the highlights of the city.
Natural incidence of light through the 180 windows in the dome
Design from the barren North
Nordic design is famous for its simplicity and minimalism. The interior of the Temppeliaukio Church is a great example of this. Since the rocks serve as walls and much granite is incorporated into the interior, the natural surroundings are given their proper due. The numerous windows in the dome create a beautiful interplay of sunlight and shadow.
An architectural tour
Helsinki is a must for architecture lovers. Modernism, functionalism and the highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in Northern Europe – this city has it all. Stroll along the architectural highlights following a special walking map which can be purchased at the Tourist Information . Or simply take tram line 4, which passes virtually every interesting building in the city.
