Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Piece of cultural history |
23-27 Bulevardi Helsinki 00180 Finland +358 9 169 3544 |
The Aleksanteri theatre, the "Old Opera House", is located near Hietalahti square and the charming Sinebrychoff park. Nowadays the building is home to occasional theatrical performances and concerts. The bricks for this decorative red building were transported all the way from Ahvenanmaa. The building was designed by Kosperoff and completed in 1879 to serve as a theatre to the local Russian garrison. The National Theatre and Opera companies moved here in 1918; the National Theatre moved away quite quickly, but the National Opera remained at the theatre until 1993, when the new Opera House was completed in Töölö. The Old Opera House is an important part of Finnish cultural history. Its lovely surroundings and excellent shows are also good reasons for a visit. The National Ballet's school operates on the premises, and the program consists mainly of operatic and ballet performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eero Pailinna |
 Photo: Oliver Wihler |
 Photo: koskicar |
|
Take a Stroll |
Aleksanterinkatu Helsinki Finland |
Aleksanterinkatu, also known by locals as "Aleksi," is great street for shopping. Aleksanterinkatu starts near the Presidential Palace and crosses by Senate Square. Stroll down Aleksanterinkatu for some great stores, such as Feminett, Stockmann and Kiseleffin Basaari. Aleksanterinkatu is also brightly lit with elaborate lights during the Holiday season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Orthodox church in central Tapiola |
2 Kaupinkalliontie Tapiola Helsinki 02100 Finland +358 9 455 3436 |
The Church of St. Herman of Alaska was built in the centre of Tapiola a few years ago. It is lovely to visit this charming wooden building, located on a small wooded hill right next to the Tapiola school. It was designed by the Orthodox priest-architect, Paul Hesse, as a synthesis of the Byzantine traditions and modern architecture, and the icons were made by Alexander Wikström. The church is also known for its wall decorations. Tours are often organized, while regular services are held daily. Call for more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Alvar Aalto's controversial creation |
1 Kanavaranta Helsinki 00160 Finland |
The easily recognisable form of the Enso building, cause to a lot of controversy, guards the district of Katajanokka. The building, designed by Alvar Aalto in 1962, has been called the "sugar cube" due to its shape and colour. The cubic house with its interesting lines of windows has caused quite a stir among citizens, as it is thought unsuitable for its surroundings. It doesn't exactly blend in with its neighbours—the Jugend-style Katajanokka, the elegant Presidential Palace and the majestic Uspenski cathedral. The Enso building was built on the spot of the old Norrmén castle, a decorative redbrick building, which was a close cousin of the Uspenski Cathedral. Many feel that the old building should have been kept in its place. Nevertheless, the Enso building is an important architectural landmark and a beautiful building. Its white marble walls and symmetrical windows bring a special flair to the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Glorious sight framed by trees and water |
58 Helsinginkatu P. O. Box 176 Helsinki, Southern Finland 00260 Finland +358 (0)9 4030 2211 (Box Office) http://www.operafin.fi |
Completed in 1993, this is one of the greatest works of modern Finnish architecture with a sense of spaciousness and light throughout. There is an outdoor amphitheater facing a park and the opera building often hosts small art exhibitions. Performances sell out quickly. There's free chamber music in the foyer on Saturday and the Alminsali hall hosts smaller operatic, ballet and jazz performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
All you need to know about Helsinki |
19 Pohjoisesplanadi Helsinki, Southern Finland 00100 Finland +358 (0)9 169 3757 http://www.hel2.fi/Tourism/EN/... |
Helsinki is more than a city in the land of the midnight sun. There are things to do in this vibrant metropolis no matter what the season, no matter the amount of sunshine or moonlight. The Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau can provide you with information on activities ranging from Christmas fairs to ski team viewings. For information on upcoming events, visit their website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Jean Sibelius's lived here |
Ainolantie (on Lake Tuusula) Helsinki 04400 Finland +358 9 287 322 |
Ainola, situated by Lake Tuusula, is the old home of famed composer Jean Sibelius. The location was first discovered while skiing by painter Eero Järnefelt, Sibelius' brother-in-law. He told Sibelius, who fell in love with the scenery, and the building was constructed after designs by famous architect Lars Sonck. The house was completed in 1904 and named after Sibelius' wife, Aino. The main feature is the surrounding nature. Sibelius used to go for long walks in the woods, and also had a chair placed on a hill so he could look out over the lake, the neighbouring fields and the flying swans, searching for inspiration. The majestic forests of the area also featured strongly in Sibelius' art. The décor of the house has been kept as it was. The music scores, books and furniture are original, so you almost feel as if someone still lives here. The walls feature art by important Finnish painters Järnefelt, Edelfelt and Gallen-Kallela, all friends of Sibelius's. The house is surrounded by a lovely but simple garden, also home to Jean and Aino Sibelius's gravestone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Markus Schöpke  |
 Photo: nori* |
 Photo: Jussi Kangasharju |
 Photo: Paul Holloway |
 Photo: Francesco M. Landol |
 Photo: Nina Weinbrenner |
 Photo: kino_oink |
 Photo: Lisa Fendelander |
 Photo: Elver72 |
 Photo: Elisa Valori |
 Photo: Gene Borris |
 Photo: Francesco Piantini |
 Photo: kathleenhughes82 |
 Photo: Isaac Arenas |
 Photo: Robert Montgomery |
 Photo: Sachin Kundu |
 Photo: Darius Ciuladis |
 Photo: Debbie Miller |
 Photo: Maria Canale |
 Photo: Matthew Savoie |
 Photo: Simon Lant |
 Photo: Maryellen Pienta |
 Photo: Julian Osley |
 Photo: Gwen Austin |
 Photo: Su |
 Photo: Judith Bogaardt |
 Photo: Jes Aguado |
 Photo: Molly Tourtelot |
 Photo: Kristi Allen |
 Photo: The Sabre Coach |
 Photo: elisa gorla - italy |
 Photo: J Arnett |
 Photo: P. Hurd/A. Sabin |
|
Stunning studio-home |
166 Hvitträskintie Luoma Helsinki 02440 Finland +358 9 221 9230 |
Hvitträsk is a glorious example of Finnish Art Nouveau at its best, a celebration of peasant culture. The red-topped log and stone building was completed in 1904, designed by Eliel Saarinen, whose home the building would become. Hvitträsk was also the studio and headquarters of the architect firm founded by Saarinen, Herman Geselius and Armas Lindgren. The building is complemented by a lakeside sauna by Reima Pietilä. Nowadays a museum, Hvitträsk was a cultural centre and played host to a whole range of artists, from Gorki to Gallen-Kallela. Its main feature is the parqueted main hall, with its seating arrangement decorated with tinted glass and majestic fireplace. Hvitträsk was designed to blend into its surroundings; the rocky outcrop, clear lake and thick forests are all in harmony with the form and materials of the house. Nowadays the building is a popular venue for parties. You can cap the night off with a sauna followed by a dip in the lake, or a nice barbecue. Hvitträsk is also a place drenched with history. Stories of ghosts, bodies and treasures hidden in the walls abound and have encouraged hundreds of people to go on treasure hunts in the area. The museum can be toured alone or with a guide. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Finnish history and art |
34 Mannerheimintie Helsinki 00100 Finland +358 9 40501 http://www.nba.fi/NATMUS/Infof... |
The National Museum of Finland was designed by Herman Geselius, Armas Lindgren and Eliel Saarinen. The museum is one of the proudest pieces of the Finnish Art Nouveau movement. The castle—like building was completed in 1906 after which it has been one of the landmarks of the city, known for its tall tower and the Emil Wikström sculpture Bear that stands guard at the main entrance. The building's courtyard and the surrounding walls form a nice addition to the structure. The National Museum's comprehensive collections spread out over four floors and about 3,200 square meters. They show the development of Finland from as far back as prehistory. The exhibitions are historical and encompass archaeology, culture and sociology. Even if you go no further than the main entrance hall you will be amazed. The ceiling is decorated by Kalevala— inspired frescos made by famous artist Akseli Gallen—Kallela. He originally painted them for the Paris World Fair held at the beginning of the twentieth century. The street between the National Museum and the Parliament Building has numerous statues that represent Finnish presidents and other notable people. In addition to the permanent exhibition, various special exhibitions are arranged in the museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Satu Metsola |
 Photo: Oskar Tiuhtiviuhti |
 Photo: Aron Ellefson |
 Photo: lovejoy485 |
 Photo: Satu Metsola |
 Photo: Marko_K |
 Photo: James Teo |
 Photo: Amy Tsaykel |
 Photo: Ehsan Roudiani |
 Photo: Erik Klemetti |
 Photo: Lars Baarman |
 Photo: Blind_donkey (cc) |
 Photo: Scott Campbell |
|
Observatory surrounded by parkland |
20A Siltavuorenpenger P. O. Box 14 Helsinki 00170 Finland |
Tähtitorninmäki (Observatory Hill) is a delightful park as well as one of the city's best panoramic locations. When you climb up the hill from the direction of the Market Square, the first thing that catches your eye is the memorial to the Hapsburg shipwreck victims, designed by Gunnar Finne in 1939. Right next to the memorial is the German church. If you follow the path closest to the shore, up the hill, you'll come to the bronze Statue of the Shipwrecked, a well-known landmark designed by Robert Stigell in 1897. There is also a great view from the statue over to the Market Square, Katajanokka and the Suomenlinna sea fortress. Tähtitorninmäki got its name from the Tähtitorni, Observatory, which stands upon it. The observatory was designed by C.L. Engel and built in 1833. The top of the hill offers a great view all over the city. The most famous sight is probably what greets your eye when you stand in front of the observatory and look straight down Unioninkatu towards the district of Kallio. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Niklas Sjöblom |
 Photo: Niklas Sjöblom |
|
Park yourself here! |
3-5 Bulevardi Helsinki 00120 Finland |
The Old Church Park is one of Helsinki's most beautiful parks. Its elm trees provide a haven for people to rest under during their hectic days. In the eighteenth century, the park housed a cemetery, the final resting place of thousands of people up to 1918. In 1710, half the population of Helsinki was buried in the park—victims to the plague. Monuments in the park commemorate some of the soldiers buried here, and there is the famous statue of Finnish activist and children's writer Elias Lönnrot, the man who compiled the national epic Kalevala. Emil Wikström sculpted the statue in 1902. The most important feature of the park is the Neo-Classical Old Church, the oldest existing church in Helsinki, designed by C.L. Engel and completed in 1826. In addition to the Old Church, Engel designed a stone gate for the park's main entrance in 1928. The gate is inscribed with some memorial words for the plague victims buried in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Harri Paavolainen |
 Photo: James Perkins |
|
Classic functionalism |
1 Paavo Nurmen tie Helsinki 00250 Finland +358 (0)9 4366 010 http://www.stadion.fi/ |
The Helsinki Olympic Stadium is a majestic piece of functionalist architecture. Designed by Yrjö Lindgren and Toivo Jäntti, it was completed in 1940; since then it has seen many renovations and changes. The bleachers are much more comfortable now, and the stadium can accommodate 40,000 people. Originally constructed as a venue for the 1940 Olympic Games (cancelled because of WWII), the stadium is best known for hosting the 1952 Olympics. Its most famous part is the 72 meter tower, which also offers one of the best views of the city. It plays host to numerous concerts, and amateur and professional sporting events (including the World Cup), hosts the Finland vs. Sweden athletics every other year, and is also home to the Finnish Sport Museum. Next to the car park is the statue of one of the world's all—time greatest athletes, the legendary Paavo Nurmi. The statue was sculpted by Wäinö Aaltonen in 1952, the year Nurmi was given the honour of lighting the Olympic torch. A statue of another great Finnish athlete of the 1970s, Lasse Viren, is across the street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Olli Alopaeus |
 Photo: Olli Alopaeus |
 Photo: grisok |
 Photo: Harri Paavolainen |
 Photo: Mike Lipscomb |
 Photo: Docnico |
 Photo: Brit Steiner |
 Photo: Erik Lammerding |
 Photo: Gemma Gray |
 Photo: Caroline Yu |
 Photo: filmvanalledag |
 Photo: jokuhn |
 Photo: Neil Sneddon |
 Photo: David Procházka |
 Photo: Peter |
 Photo: Paul Hart |
 Photo: Heikki Alanen |
 Photo: Anssi Koskinen |
 Photo: Michael Keenan - UK |
 Photo: hitthepanicbutton |
 Photo: j boyes |
 Photo: bsmldr |
 Photo: Bernhard Snizek |
 Photo: pexi1972 |
 Photo: transwede |
 Photo: Eric Chicas |
 Photo: John Kong |
 Photo: pokrakam |
 Photo: Matti Sillanpää |
 Photo: Matt |
 Photo: Soleado84 |
 Photo: Chris_W_ |
 Photo: Florian Greiner |
|
Unique group of buildings |
Otaniemi Helsinki 02150 Finland http://www.dipoli.hut.fi |
Visit Otaniemi if you are interested in Finnish design and architecture. It is a unique collection of buildings that fit together and merge superbly into their surroundings—known for the redbrick University of Technology designed by Alvar Aalto, and the charming Dipoli by Reima Pietilä. Aalto's buildings form Finland's most important technological centre; the campus attracts both young students and older professionals who live and work in the area. Though the buildings are very similar, they also have structural differences and variations in design. The main building stands out with a great amphitheatre and terrace-like courtyard, visible from a distance. Dipoli, completed in 1966, does not pale in comparison with Aalto's creations; it is Otaniemi's greatest sight along with the amphitheatre. Dipoli is of great architectural significance and its design has been admired throughout the world. Many know its fascinating exteriors and the pinecone-shaped sculpture outside. Otaniemi is also very close to nature, with a popular sports ground, forests, grassy fields, a long shoreline, ponds and bridges. Seurasaari and the bridges that lead to it (which are great for fishing) are within walking distance of the centre of Otaniemi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Vascellari |
|
Majestic landmark of Helsinki |
30 Mannerheimintie Helsinki 00100 Finland http://www.eduskunta.fi |
The Parliament, now a heritage listed building, was constructed in 1926—1931 after the design Oratoribus by architects Borg, Sirén and Åberg. This is Finland's only representative og 1920s Classicism. Its monumental exterior is characterized by 14 Corinthian columns, and is built of red granite. The building is made of Finnish materials, and it represents the unity of architecture, art, workmanship and industrial design. This is apparent in the decor as well as the 900 works of art on display, the most famous of which are the bronze sculptures in the Session Hall designed by Wäinö Aaltonen. Each of the five floors is unique, connected to the others by a white marble staircase and famous open lifts. Most important for visitors are the beautiful main lobby, the stately Session Hall and the awe—inspiring Hall of State. Guided tours are arranged on Saturdays and Sundays, and on weekdays in July and August. Tuesdays and Fridays you can watch the Parliament in session from the public balcony. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Maneu |
 Photo: zache |
|
Renowned architectural masterpiece |
Rautatientori Helsinki 00100 Finland |
The Railway Station is an important symbol of Helsinki, as well as an internationally renowned pearl of architecture. The building dates from 1914, and represents late Finnish Art Nouveau. It is the main work of famous architect Eliel Saarinen. The façade of the Railway Station, with its main entrance framed by a row of huge statues holding lanterns designed by Emil Wikström, is a familiar sight to all Finns. The pink—granite and copper structure with its famous clock tower is beautiful inside as well; old lamps and a beige colouring are complemented by original woodwork, creating a warm atmosphere. The Railway Station brings together many forms of travel: railway, metro and buses (on the square next to the station). Trams go right past the building as well. The shops and tunnels under the station offer bargain shopping opportunities and good connections to most of the city centre. The tunnels are a convenient route to take especially during bad weather. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stian Jondal |
 Photo: Charanpal Dhanjal |
 Photo: Anton Särkkä |
 Photo: Petri Tuohimaa |
 Photo: Jenni Meriluoto |
 Photo: Kevin Pollard |
 Photo: David Harding |
 Photo: Philip Menke |
 Photo: Mikael Albrecht |
 Photo: annmariii3 |
 Photo: Juha Heikkila |
 Photo: michelle |
 Photo: Geoff Stahl |
 Photo: Karel Moravec |
 Photo: Stéphane Lecorney |
 Photo: Geoff Stahl |
 Photo: StaneStane |
 Photo: samiru |
 Photo: Maria Manner |
 Photo: Paul James |
 Photo: jim proffit |
 Photo: Ramon Sadornil |
 Photo: Tobias Grosch |
 Photo: Phil Davies |
 Photo: Beth Goldner |
 Photo: Jarkko Karhunen |
 Photo: Proenski |
 Photo: Harri Haataja |
|
The stately home of the Government |
1 A Snellmaninkatu Helsinki 00170 Finland |
The Senate Building, designed by C. L. Engel, is situated on one side of the Senate Square, left of the Cathedral. Its yellow colour and white columns make it easily recognisable. The Senate Building, one of Engel's main works, was completed in 1822, and used to house the Imperial Senate of Finland. When Finland became independent, the building became the offices of the government and the prime minister. Though everyone can admire the building's beautiful design, its columns and the old lamps, the building's most interesting sight is hidden from most. The Empire—style throne room, right above the main entrance, is one of the most stunning interiors in Finland, but ordinary citizens cannot visit it. On one end of the building is Helsinki's oldest public clock. The Senate Building is a symbol of authority and a beautiful, balanced piece of architecture. With its close twin, the main building of the University of Helsinki on the opposite side of the square, it frames the Cathedral and the whole square nicely. For further details, you can contact the Tourist Information Center at +358 (0)10 605 8000. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sami Tikka |
 Photo: Jussi-Paavo R L Piek |
 Photo: ellie* |
 Photo: haarajoki |
|
Amalgamation of Power, Turmoil and Progress |
Unioninkatu 29 Helsinki 00170 Finland +358 9 3101 3300 http://www.visitfinland.com/W5... |
The Senate Square is one of the architectural masterpieces created by C.L. Engel. The columns and porticoes of the Square resemble the Corinthian order seen in the Senate of Rome. The staircase in the main wing and the senate room on the first floor are considered to be one of the finest work in interiors. This monument along with the surrounding buildings forms a perfect example of Neo-Classic design. Right in the centre of the square is the statue of Emperor Alexander II-a sign of Finland's imperial relationship with Russia. Apart from being a major tourist attraction, this monument now hosts a number of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Commemorating the Famous Composer |
38 Mechelininkatu Sibelius Park Helsinki 00250 Finland +358 (0)9 169 3757 (Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau) http://www.eilahiltunen.net/mo... |
One of Helsinki's landmarks, the monument to honor national composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) was the result of a public fundraising campaign and a two-stage competition in 1961-62. At all stages, the project stirred an unprecedented public debate, as the entire Finnish population seemed to be divided into two camps, the conformists urging for a figurative solution, and the modernists accepting an abstraction as well. Finland's first abstract public monument, Eila Hiltunen's Copper Fountain, had been unveiled in 1961. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nori* |
 Photo: Satomi |
 Photo: gm fonseca |
 Photo: Erin Lewis |
 Photo: Grant Fraser |
 Photo: Melody Rattanapote |
 Photo: Lisa Marr |
 Photo: Gérôme |
 Photo: Ceri Donovan |
 Photo: Sari Nummivuori |
 Photo: Erin Faulkner |
 Photo: Hanna Kiuru |
 Photo: Anthony Ang |
 Photo: Aiden O'Hehir |
 Photo: Mats Sjöberg |
 Photo: Route_66 |
 Photo: Tryggvi R. Jónsson |
 Photo: Pieter-Jan Miermans |
 Photo: Nigel Swales |
 Photo: Vladimir Pletenev |
 Photo: mo_ko_na |
 Photo: kriiistiiin |
 Photo: Sami Taipale |
 Photo: Sturt Ison |
 Photo: Vitorio Benedetti |
 Photo: Matti.Pauna |
 Photo: Krystal Jones |
 Photo: Benjamin Creek |
 Photo: Molly Cartwright |
 Photo: Hakan Karaoğlu |
 Photo: luisgarriz |
 Photo: Stefano |
 Photo: Ruhel Ali |
 Photo: oMega_2093 |
 Photo: HelgaB |
 Photo: alfanje |
 Photo: Eduardo Bardón |
|
Helsinki's most photographed building |
29 Unioninkatu (Senaatintori) Helsinki 00100 Finland +358 9 709 2455 |
The Lutheran Cathedral (also Suurkirkko or St. Nicholas Church) is Helsinki's most important landmark. The majestic outline of its 71 meter central tower illustrates the true glory of the White City of the North. The cathedral was designed by C. L. Engel in 1830; when Engel died in 1840, E. B. Lohrmann took over the supervision and added several touches to the original blueprints, including details in the simple yet beautiful interior. The cathedral was finally completed in 1852, though the famous grand steps would not be there for another 20 years. Despite the western, classical style, the influences of Russia and especially that of Czar Nicholas I are also visible. The cathedral's famous statues of the Apostles were originally Nicholas's idea. The Czar also donated the altarpiece, the work of Russian artist von Neff. The cathedral has a high—ceilinged crypt, a venue for exhibitions and concerts, and a café open every summer. The cathedral, decorated with statues of Mikael Agricola and the religious reformers Luther and Melanchthon, hosts both ordinary and more official (Government and University) services, as well as various concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dominic marcinkus |
 Photo: Petteri Sulonen |
 Photo: Peter PZ |
 Photo: phototouring |
 Photo: phototouring |
 Photo: Hurina |
 Photo: Nadia Prigoda |
 Photo: falsummatti |
 Photo: eesu |
 Photo: Marko_K |
 Photo: Leena Saarinen |
 Photo: Tiina Rajasalo |
 Photo: Zunkkis |
 Photo: Jouni Heinänen |
 Photo: Hiranya Samarasekera |
 Photo: Rebecca Slaven |
|
Lovely round theatre |
2 Pohjoisesplanadi Helsinki 00130 Finland +358 9 6162 1411 http://www.svenskateatern.fi |
The round white building of the Swedish Theatre, Svenska Teatern, is an important Helsinki landmark. The building and its surrounding shops, statues and park form a relaxing area in the city centre. The first theatre to be built in this spot was completed in 1827, but replaced later; this wooden building burnt down, and so a new theatre was constructed in 1866 after designs by Russian architect Nicholas Benois. Today, the red-and-gold décor with its lovely boxes and columns is still as it was in Benois's day. The exterior of the building was restored and smoothed out under the control of architects Jarl Eklund and Eero Saarinen in 1936. The theatre is a landmark of the times leading up to Finnish independence; it was the venue of the first-ever performance of Sibelius's Finlandia, conducted by the composer himself. The great hall seats about 500 people, and the small hall about 100. The theatre transcends the language barrier, as evidenced by the 80,000-100,000 people who attend performances there yearly. The Swedish Theatre is known for its performances of classical drama as well as its musical repertoire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Salim Amari |
 Photo: Jonas Ahlberg |
|
Museum & Architectural Attraction |
3 Nervanderinkatu Helsinki 00100 Finland +358 9 454 2060 http://www.taidehalli.fi/en |
Designed by architects Jarl and Hilding Ekelund, Taidehalli ("art hall") launches impressive exhibitions of contemporary Finnish art in soaring interiors remarkable for their space, light, and asperity. Constructed in 1928, the hall has grown into a Helsinki establishment, and today, it is a protected architectural landmark of Finnish Neo-Classicism. There is no permanent collection, so check the website to find out what's currently on display; recent exhibitions have included everything from painting to photography and installation art. If you're lucky, you'll catch an exciting premiere, as many Taidehalli exhibits open here before embarking on a prestigious international circuit. -Liesl Yamaguchi Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pinja Okkonen |
 Photo: kyrandesa |
 Photo: Wilhelmiina |
 Photo: labRAD |
|
The renowned garden city |
1-3 Kimmeltie Helsinki 02110 Finland |
The Tapiola garden city is an internationally renowned pearl of urban design, where buildings, people and nature all work together; where walking and cycling are encouraged. Tapiola was born after the war, as the desire to develop the areas around Helsinki grew. It was based on the garden city ideology of Ebeneser Howard. Tapiola consists of three areas with a pedestrian centre. Several architects were involved in the design, each building a harmonious unit. Variety was all-important; there had to be a combination of tall and low buildings. The buildings had to fit in well with the surrounding nature, and the great Otsolahti bay was to be kept undisturbed. Aarne Ervi was given the job of designing the famous centre with its tower, busy shopping district, pond, hotel, swimming baths, Cultural Centre and church. Tapiola was commended in the US in 1967 as one of the best cityscapes in the world. The garden city is now an important commercial and cultural centre; for instance the Tapiola Choir, Espoo Big Band, Espoo City Theatre and Tapiola Sinfonietta are greatly renowned. Tapiola is also home to the popular April Jazz festival and Espoo Ciné International Film Festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tero Lakkala |
 Photo: Tero Lakkala |
 Photo: marco_pozzo |
 Photo: Kosti Kannas |
 Photo: Oliver Weidlich |
 Photo: Emil Lupu |
 Photo: Arja Kirvesoja |
 Photo: Chittagong |
 Photo: Jonttu Leskinen |
|
The University of Helsinki Main Building |
35 Unionsgatan Helsinki 00170 Finland +358 9 1911 http://www.helsinki.fi |
In 1827 the Turku Academy was moved to Helsinki as the Russians came to power and the capital changed. The Academy needed a place to operate, so C. L. Engel designed a building on one side of the Senate Square; it was completed in 1832. The Academy began its operation and changed its name to the Imperial University. After Finland became independent, the name was changed again, to the University of Helsinki. The yellow main building is a close match to the Senate Building opposite, in dimensions, colour and style. The completion of this building brought the finishing touches to the uniform group of Empire—style buildings surrounding Senate Square. The University is one of Helsinki's main landmarks. The interiors of the building are very beautiful: the stairwells, stone floors and statues create a balanced but interesting whole. The stunning main festival hall is also a sight to behold. Still, the main reason for admiring this building is its outer form, the sense of balance it creates together with the Senate Building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Town Hall |
Pohjoisesplanadi Helsinki 00130 Finland |
The Town Hall, on one side of the main market square, was designed by C.L. Engel in 1833. This gorgeous light-blue building was originally a hotel. In 1913 it was turned into the town hall, and during the Great War the building was a military hospital. In the late 1960s, the building was completely rebuilt apart from the façade. The Town Hall's beautiful lobby is worth a peek. It has several modern sculptures on display and also plays host to art exhibitions every now and then. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Maneu |
 Photo: James Perkins |
 Photo: Kirsi Arvola |
 Photo: Peter Gutierrez |
 Photo: Matthew Rees |
|
One of Helsinki's most beautiful buildings |
36 Unioninkatu Helsinki 00170 Finland +358 9 191 23196 http://www.lib.helsinki.fi/ |
The gorgeous University Library, right next to the main building of the University and the Cathedral, is one of Engel's most beautiful creations, completed in 1844. Large windows soften its yellow—and—white exterior, while trees surround the back of the building, making this one of Helsinki's most endearing sights. The outer wall of the library sports a bronze bust of Czar Alexander I and a plaque commemorating the designers of the old city centre, J. A. Ehrenström and C. L. Engel. The interior of the library building is also spectacular. The old interiors are in good shape, and the current refurbishment process is expected to bring even more of the old lustre back. The main hall with its old—fashioned furnishings and marvellous ceiling frescoes is one of the most admired interiors in Finland. The soft, beautiful exterior and serene mood of the petite building, overshadowed by taller, more majestic structures, have a calming effect on the whole neighbourhood. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dominik Marosi |
 Photo: Mats Granskog |
 Photo: Tuomo Hiippala |
 Photo: Anna Detrich |
 Photo: Jordan A Friesen |
