· By Herb Lester

Temppeliaukio Church, Helsinki

Extracted from Destination Helsinki. Buy yours here.

Completed in 1969, this church still feels like a glimpse into a better future world. It’s quite unremarkable at street level, entrance is through a bunker-like entrance which opens into the oval-shaped building, its walls carved out of solid rock, the ceiling a copper dome held in place by concrete struts and glass through which pours natural light. It’s a thrilling place to visit, whether for a concert or just to explore the space – it’s also a very popular tourist destination so crowds are likely.

photos by Jussi Tiainen

Lutherinkatu 3, 00100
Tel: 358 9 2340 5940