“Temppeliaukion kirkko” church (the name can be translated as Temple Square Church, also known as “The Church in the Rock”") is a Lutheran church, located in central Helsinki. “Temppeliaukion kirkko” church is one of the most visited attractions in the Helsinki. The features of the church are its unique design and good acoustic quality. More than half a million the tourists visits this church each year. The church, as an architectural landmark, is well known outside of Finland.
The decision to build the church on the Temppeliaukion square was made in the 30s of last century. As a requirement of project, was necessary to keep the natural landscape of the square. Located on the square granite rock impeded the project. Design competition organized several times. Only in 1961 was adopted project by the architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen. Construction of the church began in February 1968, and the church was ready for consecration in September 1969. The project has an active discussion in the community. The project has had many supporters and opponents. The project was criticized, also the high cost of construction. When designing the object architects managed to preserve the natural landscape (granitic rock) area. The church was carved in the rock body. On top the church covered with a dome. The inner walls of the church are raw, granite, rock surface. Uneven walls have helped to achieve excellent acoustic properties.
The church is often used as a venue for various concerts due to its excellent acoustics. There is an organ composed of 43 tubes inside the building.
The church “Temppeliaukion kirkko” is located at a distance of approximately 500 meters from the railway station of Helsinki. You can get to the church along the street “Fredrikinkatu” (approximately 400 meters) from the “Kamppi” metro station (to the north).
What does this mean in Finnish? Kirkko - church, aukio (tori) - Square, temppeli - Temple, katu - street.
Church location is marked on the map