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Akershus Fortress


Medieval castle and fortress in the centre of the city
Oslo Mil. / Akershus
Oslo 0015
Originally built as a castle in 1299, Akershus Festning was later developed into a city fortress. Standing on the walls and ramparts you will get truly great views of the Oslo fjord and the city. The original Akershus Castle is located inside the fortress. At the Information Centre, there is an exhibition on the history of the fortress, and guided tours depart from here each day between May and September. Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Akershus Fortress photo by Morten Ludvigsen
Photo: Morten Ludvigsen
Akershus Fortress photo by Gordon Birkwood
Photo: Gordon Birkwood
Akershus Fortress photo by grizi
Photo: grizi
Akershus Fortress photo by Carol Riddell
Photo: Carol Riddell
Akershus Fortress photo by Juan C. Martin
Photo: Juan C. Martin
Akershus Fortress photo by Denise Connell
Photo: Denise Connell
Akershus Fortress photo by Anne Farmakidis
Photo: Anne Farmakidis
Akershus Fortress photo by Chris Alsup
Photo: Chris Alsup
Akershus Fortress photo by Helén Schjønhaug
Photo: Helén Schjønhaug
Akershus Fortress photo by beside_the_seaside
Photo: beside_the_seaside
Akershus Fortress photo by Jesse Gordon Long
Photo: Jesse Gordon Long
Akershus Fortress photo by Evan Volden
Photo: Evan Volden
Akershus Fortress photo by Ian Hanson
Photo: Ian Hanson
Akershus Fortress photo by Erling Kjærnes
Photo: Erling Kjærnes
Akershus Fortress photo by sulapi
Photo: sulapi
Akershus Fortress photo by Suzanne Shaw
Photo: Suzanne Shaw
Akershus Fortress photo by Harald Groven
Photo: Harald Groven
 

 
Church of Our Lady


Copenhagen's Former Cathedral
Nørregade 8
København 1165
+45 33 37 65 40
http://www.koebenhavnsdomkirke.dk
Vor Frue Kirke (the Church of Our Lady) serves as Copenhagen's cathedral, and was completely rebuilt thrice (in 1316, 1738 and 1829), after being destroyed by fires. Architect C.F. Hansen's neo-classical facade contrasts greatly with the ornate interior, which features statues of Jesus and the Twelve Apostles by the world-famous Danish sculptor Thorvaldsen. The museum in the crypt is fascinating and displays models and remains of the previous buildings. The Christmas concert by the Danish Boys Choir is a highlight of Denmark's festive season.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Church of Our Lady photo by Teli Chinelis
Photo: Teli Chinelis
 

 
Church of Our Saviour


Church Known For Its Twisted Spire
Skt. Annægade 19
København 1416
+45 3257 2798
http://www.vorfrelserskirke.dk
Vor Frelsers Kirke (the Church of Our Saviour) is situated in the romantic surroundings of Christianshavn, the island between Copenhagen city and Amager. Architect Lambert von Haven built the church in 1696. At that time, the church could not afford a spire, so the beautiful tower that now crowns Vor Frelsers Kirke was not added until 1752. Now the tower with its twisted gold and copper spire, which takes you 95 meters and 400 steps above ground-level, is the most famous part of the church. From the top you have a splendid view. The spire has been newly restored and now looks just great. The interior is interesting too. Note the relief depicting the elephant that seems to bear the organ. The elephant is a symbol of the highest order of nobility achievable in Denmark. The church is also famous for its advanced carillon.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Church of Our Saviour photo by Michael Morrell, CT
Photo: Michael Morrell, CT
Church of Our Saviour photo by Stalwart
Photo: Stalwart
Church of Our Saviour photo by Capella Boltiador
Photo: Capella Boltiador
Church of Our Saviour photo by Chava Sanderson
Photo: Chava Sanderson
 

 
Finnish Church


Finnish church
Slottsbacken 2
Stockholm 11130
+46 (0)8 440 82 02
http://www.svenskakyrkan.se/fi...
finska.forsamlingen@svenskakyrkan.se
This Finnish church is located next to the palace in Gamla Stan. It was designed and constructed by the famous architect Göran Josua Adelcrantz. The altar ring probably originates from the palace chapel in Tre Kronor, which burned down in 1697. The church has 1,734 paintings depicting various Finnish provincial weapons as well as the national coat of arms. It is open for visits only between June and August, and services are held every Sunday.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Finnish Church photo by Christine Link
Photo: Christine Link
 

 
Frederikskirken Church


Giant, Baroque Marble Church
Frderiksgade 4
København 1265
+45 3315 0144
Frederikskirken is the high point of Frederiksstaden, a part of Copenhagen that includes the royal palace of Amalienborg, and Amaliehaven (the Royal Gardens). The style of this church is Baroque. Architect Nicolai Eigtved began construction of the building in 1749, but he died and the church was not finished until 1892. It is built with primarily marble, and most people call it "Marmorkirken", the 'Marble Church'. With its enormous and beautiful copper dome, inspired by the Church of Saint Peter in Rome, it is part of the Copenhagen skyline. The church was recently restored and cleaned of smog stains, and now it stands beautifully - bright and shimmering in the sun. A visit to the interior is also a great experience. At 1p and 3p every day you can get access to the top of the church tower.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Frederikskirken Church photo by Sarah Temby
Photo: Sarah Temby
 

 
Gamle Aker Church


Oslo's oldest church
Akersbakken 26
Oslo 0172
+47 21 93 8185
Oslo's oldest building was constructed on a countryside hill around 1080, using limestone quarried from the nearby cemetery. The expansion of the city has caught up with the church, and now it lies only a ten-minute walk from the Royal Palace. The views over the city are good. The Anglo-Romanesque stone church has an elongated three-nave plan with a choir and one side chapel, both ending in semi-circular apses, and it can seat up to 450 people. The belfry was added in 1861 by architects H.E. Schirmer and Wilhelm von Hanno. The church has been plundered and set on fire several times over the years; in 1703 it was even struck by lightning, and all contents were lost. The Baroque bishop's throne and baptismal font date from 1715. Today's austere stone walls were uncovered in the 1952-55 restoration. Attending Mass here still takes your mind back to Mediaeval times, although the Bishop no longer tolerates the holy water, incense, icons, superfluous hymns and music, and other Orthodox elements that used to mark this church's liturgy. During World War II, Queen Maud's sarcophagus was hidden from the Nazis inside this church.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Gamle Aker Church photo by Ramon Kristian Arellano
Photo: Ramon Kristian Arellano
 

 
Gol Stav Church


The Oslo stave church
Norsk Folkemuseum
Museumsveien 10
Oslo 0287
+47 22 12 3700
http://www.norskfolke.museum.no
Stave churches—easily Norway's most significant contribution to the world's religious architecture—are the closest thing to Gothic cathedrals in this country. They are Gothic in that the roof is carried by a firm framework of ground beams, upright corner staves and top sills rather than by solid walls. Elsewhere in Europe, this structure allowed for large bay windows and luminous interiors; here, light is admitted only through narrow "peep-holes," a fact that can be explained by the cold climate as well as in terms of the Norwegian idea of light. As they were made entirely of wood, stave churches were tarred every three years, otherwise there would not be as many as 28 of them still standing. In 1880, the dilapidated Gol Stave Church was moved to the Bygdøy peninsula and restored at the expense of King Oscar II, to embellish his then newly opened outdoor museum. Attending the regular Lutheran service or the occasional Roman Catholic Mass held here is a memorable experience. Services are held on Sundays at 1.15pm while Catholic mass is held only occasionally.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Gol Stav Church photo by Sharron Williamson
Photo: Sharron Williamson
 

 
Haga Church


Neo-Gothic style in Haga
Haga Östergata 30
Gothenburg 41122
+46 31 731 6160
Haga church is on the Sprängkullsgatan/Södra Allégatan junction. As you step inside you realise that it is much larger than it seems from the outside. Built in the middle of the nineteenth century, this was one of the first churches to adopt the Neo-Gothic style. The arcitecht was inspired by churches in England. The interior has been preserved in its original state as far as possible. To get here take trams 1, 3, 4 or 9 to the Haga Kyrka stop.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Haga Church photo by Li Östlund
Photo: Li Östlund
 

 
Hedvig Eleonora kyrka


Seventeenth-century Church
Storgatan 7
Stockholm 11455
+46 (0)8 663 0430
info@hedvigeleonora.se
This is a seventeenth-century church in Östermalmstorg. Several architects, such as, Jean de la Vallée and Göran J Adelkrantz, have worked on this building between 1656 and 1672. The interior is in high Baroque style, with an octagonal floor plan, a high dome and marbled Corinthian columns.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Hedvig Eleonora kyrka photo by Kenneth Ljungstrom
Photo: Kenneth Ljungstrom
Hedvig Eleonora kyrka photo by Elena
Photo: Elena
 

 
Holmenkollen Chapel


Log chapel
Holmenkollveien 142
Oslo 0391
+47 22 14 8150
Beautifully set next to the small mountain lake at the Holmenkollen ski jump, this log chapel was designed by architect Holger Sinding-Larsen in 1903, in a Nationalist style inspired by Medieval stave churches. It was built to seat up to 300 students, but nowadays the congregation is more likely to consist of the elegant residents of this upmarket neighborhood. The chapel is popular for weddings. Old as it may appear, the actual church is in fact a copy made in 1996 of the original, completely destroyed by arson some years before.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Holmenkollen Chapel photo by dergrenni
Photo: dergrenni
 

 
Johanneksen Church


Johannes church
10 E Korkeavuorenkatu
Helsinki 00120
+358 9 709 2370
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
tuomiokirkko.srk@evl.fi
Johannes church was the third Lutheran church in Helsinki, and it is still the biggest. It was built in Neo-Gothic style towards the beginning of the 1890s, as the surrounding population had begun to grow. The twin towers are 74 meters in height, so the church has very impressive dimensions. The church has 2,600 seats, so there is plenty of room for big concerts and events as well. The altarpiece shows Saul's conversion and the painting, called "A Divine Revelation" is by Eero Järnefelt, brother-in-law to Jean Sibelius. The name Johannes (John) surprisingly has its roots in the Finnish ancient era and not in the name of John the Baptist. Johannes church stands on a hill that for many centuries had been a place for Midsummer bonfires (Midsummer is also "John's Day", Juhannus in Finnish). It is also interesting that the well-known composer Oskar Merikanto worked as an organist in this church.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Johanneksen Church photo by Carolina Vieira
Photo: Carolina Vieira
Johanneksen Church photo by mika oyry
Photo: mika oyry
Johanneksen Church photo by Mitro Härkönen
Photo: Mitro Härkönen
 

 
Johannes Church


Neo-Gothic church
Kammakargatan 12
Stockholm 111
+46 (0)8 23 3980
This church is a fine example of Neo-Gothic architecture, designed by Carl Moller, and constructed in 1890. The interior consists of red, yellow and black bricks, with richly decorated arches, and unusually high slender proportions. Right next to the church building stands a wooden steeple that was constructed in 1692.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Johannes Church photo by Linda Hedvall
Photo: Linda Hedvall
 

 
Kaleva Church


Extraordinary architecture
Liisanpuisto 1
Tampere 33540
+358 3 219 0403
http://www.tampereenseurakunna...
kaleva.srk@kolumbus.fi
The Kaleva Church offers a visual counterpart to the more traditional stone churches in the city. The pale yellow walls that the church is known for would reach even higher had the original plan of architect Reima Pietilä been wholly executed. On occasion, the extraordinary appearance of the church is still commented on with mixed feelings. Completed in 1966, the church was built for the Congregation of Kaleva, to satisfy the need for a place of worship. The spacious church hall is 30 metres high and 50 metres long. The cross-shaped bell tower on the roof sends out forceful sounds that can be heard surprisingly far away even in the bustle of the city. The exterior of the church is covered with 150,000 bricks.

The church is often presented as a tourist attraction, but it also serves a large and active congregation. Services are held on Sundays and religious holidays at 10am, and often there are smaller gatherings on weekdays.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kaleva Church photo by whom_r_u_looking4
Photo: whom_r_u_looking4
 

 
Kallion Church


Majestic Kallio church
2 Itäinen Papinkatu
Helsinki 00530
+358 9 753 2086
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
kallio.srk@evl.fi
The spectacular Kallio church was designed by well-known architect Lars Sonck at the end of the nineteenth century. It was built of grey granite in 1912 onto a high place from where its handsome tower looms over the city. The bells of the tower play a melody composed by Jean Sibelius. Inside the church are numerous interesting details such as a crucifix and relief made by sculptor Hannes Autere. In 1990 the church got an urn cemetery, where urns are temporarily preserved and then transferred into a special stone grave under the church. This restored the old tradition of burying the deceased under the church floor. Kallio church is also known as a centre for organ music in Helsinki, the acoustics are excellent. The church has two organs—the main one represents the French Romantic style, and the other one is Baroque. These organs have been noticed and played by internationally known top organists.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kallion Church photo by Dani Borek
Photo: Dani Borek
 

 
Kastelskirken Church


Beautiful Church on Kastellet
Kastellet
København 2100
+45 3315 6558
http://www.kastelskirken.dk/
Kastelskirken is a very beautiful little church. It is colourful and bright, with a small central belfry, and in front of the church is a nice open square. The church is located in the middle of Kastellet, surrounded by sloping, star-shaped lawns. This is the former defence area of Copenhagen and the church used to be for the military people who lived in Kastellet. A service is held every Sunday at 10a.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kastelskirken Church photo by Krzysztof Belczynski
Photo: Krzysztof Belczynski
 

 
Katarina Church


Sweden's First Central Church
Högbergsgatan 15
Stockholm 11854
+46 (0)8 743 6800
http://www.svkyrkankatarina.com/
info@svkyrkankatarina.com/
Legendary punk rocker Joakim Thåström created a song in this church's honor. Katarina Kyrka, Sweden's first central church is also one of its prettiest. However, its beauty has been marred by fire on several occasions. The last time it was restored, the church was given its original Baroque style. Well-known personalities, such as the famous folksinger Cornelis Wreswjik have been laid to rest here. Morning services are held every Sunday at 11a.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Katarina Church photo by Kicki Holmén
Photo: Kicki Holmén
Katarina Church photo by sebd_ch
Photo: sebd_ch
Katarina Church photo by Kim Weeden
Photo: Kim Weeden
Katarina Church photo by gweedopuss
Photo: gweedopuss
Katarina Church photo by Eilert Hasseldal
Photo: Eilert Hasseldal
Katarina Church photo by Fikus
Photo: Fikus
Katarina Church photo by melodie1974
Photo: melodie1974
 

 
Mikael Agricolan Church


Remarkable large church
23 A Tehtaankatu
Helsinki 00140
+358 9 709 2390
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
Agricola church, located near Kaivopuisto, was designed by Lars Sonck, the architect of the famous Kallio church. However, there are no similarities between this church and the Kallio church, as their architecture is inspired by totally different eras. This church is spacious and therefore an ideal place for big events. The tower is 106 metres in height, evoking an image of trying to reach up to the skies. The highest part of the tower is actually a steel needle, the most unique detail of this church. The name of the church comes from the father of the standard Finnish language, Mikael Agricola. Trams 1 and 3T as well as bus 14b can be used to reach this church.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mikael Agricolan Church photo by Antti Lindström
Photo: Antti Lindström
 

 
Oscar Fredriks Church


Gothic church on the cliffs
Oscar Fredriks Kyrkogata 1
Box 310 18
Gothenburg 400 32
+46 31 731 9250
http://www.svenskakyrkan.se/os...
Oscar Fredriks church hangs on a cliff at the foot of Masthuggetsberget hill. It is built in a Gothic style, and when you look up at it in the dark it is easy to think of bats and vampires. The church was consecrated in 1893 and got its name from King Oscar II. To get to it take trams 1, 3, 4 or 9 to Järntorget or bus 85 to the church's own stop.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Oscar Fredriks Church photo by powderedlight.com
Photo: powderedlight.com
 

 
Oslo Cathedral


Oslo's cathedral
Stortorget 1
Oslo 0155
http://www.kirken.oslo.no
Consecrated in 1697, many of the Cathedral's contents date back to that time. Restored between 1849 and 1850 by Alexis de Chateauneuf, architect of the Trefoldighetskirke, further work was done on the structure in 1948-50. The cathedral is located close to Stortorget in the centre of town. King Harald and Queen Sonja were married here, as were Crown Prince Haakon Magus and Mette-Marit. The cathedral is also used for concerts and the crypt houses exhibitions. Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Oslo Cathedral photo by tinahkansson
Photo: tinahkansson
Oslo Cathedral photo by wolfpartywithdon
Photo: wolfpartywithdon
Oslo Cathedral photo by theicetroll
Photo: theicetroll
Oslo Cathedral photo by Karyn Ostrom
Photo: Karyn Ostrom
Oslo Cathedral photo by Erling Sivertsen
Photo: Erling Sivertsen
 

 
Paulus Church


Grünerløkka's parish church
Thorvald Meyers gate 31
Oslo 0555
+47 23 12 1720
http://www.kirken.oslo.no/paulus
paulus.menighet@kirken.oslo.no
Originally a working-class area, in the last years Grünerløkka has become renowned throughout Norway for its street-life and its large and ever-increasing number of restaurants and bars. One of the things that remain is the Sunday morning toll of the bells in the local church. Paulus Kirke, a Neo-Gothic brick building consecrated in 1892, was constructed by architect Henrik Bull as part of a popular overall design that included the public park of Birkelunden and the public primary school on the opposite side. For this reason the church has the peculiarity of a main entrance facing west, above which is the belfry. Up to 800 churchgoers can be seated in the spacious interior. Occasionally the church hosts the so-called Forum Gatherings, where representatives of religions as varied as Buddhism, Islam or ancient Norse beliefs gather to debate and exchange ideas. The altar painting was made by Christen Brun, and the statue of Christ is a replica modelled by Gunnar O. Alvær of an original by Danish sculptor Thorvaldsen.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Paulus Church photo by omniparticles
Photo: omniparticles
 

 
Pyhän Laurin Church


Pretty medieval church
Kirkkokatu
Lohja 08100
+358 19 322 444
maritta.kemppainen@lohja.fi
This beautiful sixteenth-century church in Vantaa is one of the most popular wedding churches in the Helsinki region, the perfect stage for a real fairy-tale wedding. This is the third-biggest medieval granite church in Finland, surprisingly pretty and dainty for its age. Its unusually rich painted decorations make this a unique piece of medieval architecture. The church is also known for its great concerts, thanks to its great acoustics. The annual Vantaa Baroque Week is one of the many musical events arranged here. It is worth finding out about the frequent concerts.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Pyhän Laurin Church photo by Sirkku
Photo: Sirkku
 

 
Roskilde


The City of Many Opportunities
Roskilde Inlet
Roskilde
Roskilde 4000
+45 4631 6565 (Tourist Information)
http://www.destination-roskild...
info@destination-roskilde.dk
In the Middle Ages, Roskilde was a trading town, and in the Viking period it had been a centre for ship-building. The city is beautifully located at the end of Roskilde Inlet, 30km west of Copenhagen. It is easy to reach by both train and car. Roskilde offers a wide selection of interesting attractions for visitors, primarily the exciting Viking Ship Museum. Located just by the inlet, this museum's collection is based on archaeological finds of Viking ships in that particular area. Roskilde Cathedral, located at the highest point of the city, is also interesting and beautiful. Here, Danish kings and queens have been buried for the last 800 years. The Cathedral also shows the changes that have taken place in architectural styles in that time. The old ferry Sagafjord is famous for serving delicious meals while you enjoy the views over the inlet. The main street should also be mentioned, with its preserved old town houses and the lovely park. In general, the city offers lots of experiences and sights to see. Not far south of the city you will find Lejre Forsøgscenter and Ledreborg Slot.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Roskilde photo by Dom Broadley
Photo: Dom Broadley
 

 
Saksalainen Church


German church
4 Bernhardinkatu
Helsinki 00130
+358 9 636 070
http://www.delgifi.pp.fi/
This German Protestant church in Kaartinkaupunki (on the southern part of Unioninkatu, near Tähtitorninmäki) is certainly one of the loveliest in Helsinki. It was consecrated in 1864. The Germans who lived in Helsinki in the nineteenth century had their own parish circle with regular German services; in 1858 they were given the right to form their own congregation and this church was the result. The church is very attractive and has a romantic atmosphere. No wonder, then, that this is one of the most popular wedding churches in the Helsinki region. On Sundays the church often has an evening service at 11p. In addition to that, Sunday services are held at 11a.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Saksalainen Church photo by Juha Mäkeläinen
Photo: Juha Mäkeläinen
 

 
Seglora Church


An Ancient Church
Djurgårdsslätten 49-51
Skansen
Stockholm 115 93
+46 8 442 8000
Seglora kyrka, initially built in Västergötland in 1729-30, is a beautiful church. In 1916, it was shifted to its present location at Skansen in Stockholm. The west tower was constructed in 1785 and three years later, its vestry was made. Paintings by Sven Wernberg, dating back to 1734, cover the walls of the church. The most impressive is the painting in neo-classical style, which decorates the wall behind the altar. Services are held every Sunday.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Seglora Church photo by Mister Roy
Photo: Mister Roy
Seglora Church photo by Ivo Gouweleeuw
Photo: Ivo Gouweleeuw
 

 
St. Jakobs Church


Sixteenth century church
Kungsträdgården
Stockholm 10391
+46 (0)8 5082 8508 (Tourist Centre)
The design of this red brick church is inspired from the late Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. It was commissioned by Johan III in 1580. The square central tower is the main attraction of the church. The church was renovated in 1968-69, and most of the sixteenth-century style has been preserved.

Review © 2007, Wcities
St. Jakobs Church photo by Josep Puigdemont
Photo: Josep Puigdemont
St. Jakobs Church photo by Nisha und Coco
Photo: Nisha und Coco
St. Jakobs Church photo by Heikki Saarinen
Photo: Heikki Saarinen
 

 
Storkyrkan Church


Pride of the Old Town
Stortorget 1
Stockholm 11129
+46 8 723 3000
http://www.sthdomkyrko.com
info@sthdomkyrko
Storkykan or Sankt Nicolai church, is located between the Palace and the Stock Exchange in the Old Town. This single-nave church, built of brick, is the oldest congregation church in Stockholm. The Baroque façade, which is different from the Gothic-style interior, was designed by the city's architect J.E. Carlberg. Some annexes were built at the end of the eighteenth century, with an aim was to make the church more modern. Check the website for more details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Storkyrkan Church photo by Melanie Feyerherm
Photo: Melanie Feyerherm
Storkyrkan Church photo by Ben Humphrey
Photo: Ben Humphrey
 

 
Suomenlinnan Church


Church on the fortress island
C3 Suomenlinna
Helsinki
+358 9 709 7665
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
tuomiokirkko.srk@evl.fi
Suomenlinna church, built in 1854, was originally Orthodox, but after Finland became independent, it was transformed into a Lutheran church. At the time it had a Russian-style onion-shaped dome, which was unfortunately removed; the present appearance of the church dates from the 1920s. The church is small and has a cosy atmosphere. Visiting it is a unique experience, thanks to its location near the sea. Also the church lighthouse, which is still in operation, is special; it is estimated that there are only three church lighthouses in the Christian world. Every Midsummer's Eve a traditional wedding is celebrated in this little church, with horse-drawn carriages and people in national costume. Ordinary services are held every summer Sunday at 12:30p. You can get here on the ferries that leave from the Market Square.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Suomenlinnan Church photo by Christian Etter
Photo: Christian Etter
 

 
Suurkirkko


Helsinki's most photographed building
29 Unioninkatu
(Senaatintori)
Helsinki 00100
+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
Suurkirkko photo by Milan Kuminowski
Photo: Milan Kuminowski
Suurkirkko photo by Davor Konjikusic
Photo: Davor Konjikusic
Suurkirkko photo by Jukka Vuokko
Photo: Jukka Vuokko
 

 
Tampere Cathedral


Hugo Simberg's brave vision
Tuomiokirkonkatu 3
Tampere 33100
+358 3 219 0265
Tampere Cathedral, one of the city's best-known sites, aroused vehement debates when it was built at the beginning of the twentieth century. The daring paintings by famous Finnish artist Hugo Simberg, inside the church, caused controversy with visions of snakes, naked boys and skeletons. Of course, this has made the building popular internationally. The church is used by the Cathedral Congregation and the Diocese of Tampere (one of Finland's eight Dioceses) as their primary place of worship.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tampere Cathedral photo by Aaron Socie
Photo: Aaron Socie
Tampere Cathedral photo by Becky
Photo: Becky
Tampere Cathedral photo by Antje Karl
Photo: Antje Karl
Tampere Cathedral photo by Ignasi Buch
Photo: Ignasi Buch
 

 
Temppeliaukion Church


Famous sight
3 Lutherinkatu
Helsinki 00100
+358 9 494 698
http://www.muuka.com/finnishpu...
taivallahti.srk@evl.fi
One of the biggest success stories in modern Helsinki architecture, Temppeliaukion Kirkko's design initially roused controversy because it involved a large hole in the granite outcrop covered with a concave roof. There are no ornaments, belfry or altar. Criticism is now a thing of the past and it receives about 500,000 visitors annually. The stonewalls and metal ceiling give a feeling of warmth and security. The temple is also an excellent venue for musical events; the acoustics are superb, attracting many of the world's best organists.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Temppeliaukion Church photo by Liz Crachi
Photo: Liz Crachi
Temppeliaukion Church photo by MONICA GASPARINI
Photo: MONICA GASPARINI
Temppeliaukion Church photo by manyi wong
Photo: manyi wong
Temppeliaukion Church photo by Carlos Orozco
Photo: Carlos Orozco
Temppeliaukion Church photo by evaabraham
Photo: evaabraham
Temppeliaukion Church photo by nictowujek
Photo: nictowujek
Temppeliaukion Church photo by charo martin
Photo: charo martin
Temppeliaukion Church photo by Tiina Miikkulainen
Photo: Tiina Miikkulainen
Temppeliaukion Church photo by rona83
Photo: rona83
Temppeliaukion Church photo by Oleg's photos
Photo: Oleg's photos
Temppeliaukion Church photo by Timo-Pekka Viljamaa
Photo: Timo-Pekka Viljamaa
 

 
Trinity Church


Gothic Church Connected To Rundetårn
Landemærket 2
København 1119
http://www.folkekirken.dk/stif...
The Trinitatis church was commissioned by King Christian IV in 1637, and the famous Rundetårn was built in connection with it. Trinitatis church was initially built as a church for the students of Copenhagen University, and Rundetårn was built as an observatory. Today, the church is a common National Church. It is located at Købmagergade, a busy shopping street connected to Strøget. When you see Rundetårn - and you will not miss it - Trinitatis Kirke is right behind it. It was inspired by the Gothic style and the interior, especially the altar, exudes grandeur and magnificence.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Trinity Church photo by Niels M. Knudsen
Photo: Niels M. Knudsen
 

 
Tyska kyrkan (German Church)


The German church
Svartmangatan 16
Stockholm 111
+46 8 411 1188
When the Stockholm economy was flourishing in the fourteenth century, many German merchants moved to the area. They arrived at the Saint Gertrud cottage, located where Tyska kyrkan (German Church) stands today. In 1580, this cottage was rebuilt into a church. Its portal, which was built in 1643, is richly decorated with ornaments and pictures by chief stonemason Jost Henne. Morning services are held every Sunday at 11a in Swedish and German.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tyska kyrkan (German Church) photo by Jonas Ollmar
Photo: Jonas Ollmar
Tyska kyrkan (German Church) photo by Lena Ljungar
Photo: Lena Ljungar
Tyska kyrkan (German Church) photo by Göran Sewerin
Photo: Göran Sewerin
Tyska kyrkan (German Church) photo by evalici
Photo: evalici
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this City:Scandinavia
Scandinavia - Attractions & Landmarks
Scandinavia - Historic Buildings
Scandinavia - Churches & Temples
Scandinavia - Lakes, Rivers & Beaches
Scandinavia - Parks & Gardens
Scandinavia - Panorama
Scandinavia - Museums
Scandinavia - Events

guide schmapplets for other cities:Germany
scandinavia
Spain

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