Free: All time
From the its exterior, the Temppeliaukio Church is barely visible, with only its copper dome poking out of granite rock. It resembles a flying saucer that has lodged itself in the ground. Designed by architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in 1968, the Temppeliaukio Church, or more commonly known as “the Rock Church”, has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Helsinki. The interior of the church was excavated and built directly out of solid rock and is bathed in natural light which enters through its glazed dome. The church is used frequently as a concert venue due to its excellent acoustics, due to its rough, virtually unworked rock surfaces. English-language worship services take place every Sunday at 2pm.
Address: Lutherinkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 11:45am – 5pm
Direction: Tram 2 to Sammonkatu Stop, 8 to Caloniuksenkatu Stop, Bus 24, 24, 18, 18N, 39, 39B, 41, 42, 45, 70T
Phone: +358 9 23406320
Website: www.helsinginkirkot.fi/fi/kirkot/temppeliaukion-kirkko
Photo credit: ken.h (Flickr CC), Rosie Rogers (Flickr CC), Jesus M War (Flickr CC), .nrq. (Flickr CC)
