Helsinki Senate Square on the map. Senate Square Helsinki - architectural ensemble
Getting to know Helsinki, of course, should start from Senate Square. This is both his calling card and the main square of the country, in combination. Photos of its views will definitely be in any guide to Finland. The architectural ensemble of Senaatintori is as much a symbol of the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” as the elk or Mummy Troll.
History of Senate Square
The history of the square began at the beginning of the 17th century, when Helsinki, still a remote province, could not even dream of becoming a capital, looking at the majestic and ancient Turku with delight and some envy.
Even then, all the attributes befitting a center of urban and public life were located here - the first town hall and the first church with an adjoining cemetery.
But on April 12, 1812, the square woke up in a different capacity - the main square of the main city. It was on this day that Emperor Alexander I proclaimed Helsinki the new capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland. The newly elected “princess” needed a new, formal “outfit.” The topographical officer Johan Albercht Ehrenström and the architect Carl Ludwig Engel were commissioned by the highest permission from St. Petersburg to build not just a city, but a luxurious capital of the Grand Duchy. (There is now a memorial plaque with their names on the wall of the University Library).
The building of the Church of Ulrika Eleonora and the town hall located on the square were dismantled (the place where the church was previously located is marked on the paving stones of the square), and in their place, in a strict hierarchy, ceremonial buildings were lined up, which united into one of the most organic and consistent architectural ensembles in the Empire style.
Senate building
Helsinki - Senate BuildingThe first building to appear on the square was the building of the Imperial Senate of Finland (if you stand facing the cathedral, it will be on the right). The facade was completed already in 1822.
Currently, the current government of the country (the State Council) works here, which meets every Friday at 13.00. On the second floor is the office of the Prime Minister, and above the main entrance in the former Throne Room, the President of the Republic signs the laws of the country.
The oldest public clock in Finland is located on the pediment of the building.
Nothing but political battles has shaken the peace of the current government for more than a hundred years, since in 1904, the terrorist Schauman shot and killed Governor General Bobrikov in the Senate for his Russification policy.
Opposite the Senate in 1832 the University building rose. The Academy, founded in Turku back in 1640, after a fire by the highest imperial decree, was transferred to the capital and, along with a new address, received a new name - Alexandrinsky University.
The building completely replicates the proportions of the Senate, but is distinguished by a somewhat modest order - the Senate’s is Corinthian, while the University’s is more strict and restrained, Ionic.
Anyone can enter the university, where they will see the ceremonial decoration of the lobby and copies of ancient statues on the staircases.
The building was seriously damaged during the Soviet bombing in 1944. In particular, the unique paintings of the University assembly hall were destroyed. Restored, it was opened in 1948, and for its 350th anniversary, the building received a general reconstruction as a gift.
And a little to the right is the University Library - Engel’s best creation, completed after his death - in 1844. Admission to the library, as well as to the University, is free (just be prepared to deposit your bags in the boxes at the very entrance). The collection of a unique collection of Slavic literature was facilitated by a fire in Turku, which in 1827 completely destroyed both the Academy itself and its library. After which, Emperor Alexander I ordered that a copy of every new book published in the empire be sent here. Now the collection of the library of the University of Helsinki is considered a “Mecca” for Slavinists around the world - the tenacious hands of Soviet censorship did not reach it.
Don't be lazy and take a look at the library. The first room with a vaulted painted ceiling surprises with ancient books that seem to whisper their stories from the shelves. Walk along the second tier, touch them... the history. The second hall is distinguished by its quaint architecture and free internet on computers along the windows.
Monument to Alexander II
Helsinki - monument to Alexander II In the center of Senate Square stands a monument to the Russian Emperor Alexander II, surrounded by four ladies representing Law, Peace, Enlightenment and Labor.
After the emperor legalized the Finnish language in 1863, the king endeared himself to the Finns so much that to this day they allow him, from the height of his pedestal, to observe what is happening in the main square of the country. This is such a reverent attitude towards one’s own history. No flipping through or copying from scratch.
Yes! Were a colony! Yes, we fought! And the king is standing! What does the monument have to do with it?
Merchant houses
Helsinki - home of the merchant Söderholm And in front of the king’s face, in the southern part of the square, the cute houses of burgher merchants, jostling one another, are stuck together. They survived fires, reconstructions, and redevelopments. Real city old-timers, in front of whose open windows, almost the entire history of Helsinki passed. Now many of them house colorful shops, cafes and restaurants aimed at tourists.
It’s hard to believe, but in the far right corner house, which once belonged to the sugar merchant Kiselev, the central hall of the Stockmann department store was previously located.
The house of the merchant Bok, decorated with columns, built at the beginning of the 18th century, after restoration by Engel in 1816-18, took over the functions of the City Hall. Nowadays city representative events are held here.
The extravagant gray building at the left end of the square is once the most luxury home in Helsinki. It belonged to a wealthy merchant Johann Sederholm. Plus, the building is the oldest stone structure in the city center. Now it houses a branch of the city museum, where urban life of the 18th century is presented, and rotating exhibitions are also held here.
The neighboring red-brown building with shutters is still official residence Mayor of Helsinki - Mayor.
Sofiyskaya street
Helsinki - Sofia Street But you definitely need to go back a little and turn onto tiny Sofia Street, which is already a museum in itself. From the brilliant splendor of the ceremonial buildings of Senate Square, we seem to find ourselves a hundred years ago.
Restored for the 450th anniversary of Helsinki, it is an example of the street development of old Helsinki.
Paving stones, a water pump, a funny green booth with a working telephone and signs with the name in three languages: Swedish, Russian and Finnish.
Sofia street - sign There is only one “but”. There were no signs with Finnish names “back then”. The nobility spoke Swedish, the officials spoke Russian. The Finnish language remained for a long time the language of peasants and commoners.
But these are all trifles, and historical justice pales in comparison with the air of antiquity that permeates the atmosphere of Sofia Street.
Now turn around and slowly walk back. Enjoy the stunning spectacle of how the snow-white block of the Cathedral floats into the cramped shadows of a tiny street.
Three central squares of the Finnish capital: Senate, Trade and Station. They have always been of interest to tourists, since they are the focus of many architectural monuments and attractions. We will pay a little attention to each of them and get to know them better.
Senate Square
Senate Square
The main features of the panoramic view that opens from the steps of the Cathedral took shape in the first half of the 19th century. In 1812, Helsinki was proclaimed the capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland. And the new capital had to live up to such a high status. For design central square The city invited the German architect Karl Ludwig Engel, who in the 20-30s. In the 19th century, he designed a number of official buildings that make up the main ensemble of Senate Square.
To find out where everything is, let’s take the Cathedral as a starting point. This monumental building took 22 years to construct. Initially, the cathedral was called St. Nicholas Cathedral and was dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. It was also a way to express respect to the Russian Emperor Nicholas II, who presented a painting by Timofey Andreevich von Neff to decorate the altar of the temple. Later the cathedral was renamed the Helsinki Cathedral.
Address of the Cathedral: st. Unioninkatu, 29.
Architecture
At first, Engel was the architect, but he died in 1940, and the building was completed by another architect, Ernst Lohrmann. Construction was completed in 1852. The roof of the cathedral is decorated with figures of the 12 apostles, and inside there are statues of Martin Luther (the founder of the Reformation), Philip Melanchthon (a humanist and theoretician of Lutheranism) and Michael Agricola (the bishop who translated the Bible into Finnish).
Events
Various events take place on the square in front of the cathedral. holiday events, the most spectacular of which are the Lucia Day celebrations. Every year on December 13, Lucia, the Queen of Light, is chosen from among 10 candidates, crowned with a crown of burning candles, and the festive procession begins.
The cathedral is open daily from 9.00 to 18.00 (from June to August from 9.00 to 24.00). Admission is free. From time to time, the cathedral hosts official events, during which entry is closed to tourists.
Directly in front of the cathedral there is a monument to the most respected Russian emperor among the Finns - Alexander II, under whom Finland introduced its own currency - the mark, and the Finnish language received the status of a state language along with Swedish. Walter Runeberg, the author of this project, depicted the emperor in the uniform of a guards officer. He makes a speech, and around him are four allegorical figures: “Law”, “Peace”, “Light” and “Work”.
What kind of buildings surround Senate Square?
If you stand on the granite staircase of the cathedral facing the square, then to your left will be the State Council building - another Engel project. Previously, the Senate was located here (hence the name of the square), and now it is the seat of the Finnish government. The Prime Minister's office is located on the second floor. Visitors are not allowed here.
To the right of the cathedral you will see the main building of the University, designed by Engel in 1832. Like the State Council building, it is made in the neoclassical style and repeats the same proportions and composition. Next to the university building, on Unioninkanu Street, is the University Library. This building is rightfully considered one of Engel's most beautiful works.
Well, at the farthest end of the square (as seen from the steps of the cathedral) are the houses of wealthy merchants of the 18th century. Now it houses various city institutions, and on the lower floors there are shops, restaurants and cafes. The oldest building of them is the Sederholm House (this is a two-story small mansion on the corner of the square), there is a museum of merchant life and temporary exhibitions are held there.
In 2005, Senate Square gained its own “voice”. Every day at 17.49 a 5-minute musical composition is broadcast, which is best heard near the monument to Alexander II.
Station Square (Rautatientori)
This is where the acquaintance with Helsinki begins for all those who arrived in the Finnish capital by train. The station building itself certainly deserves attention; it is one of the main symbols of the city. The station began operating in 1919. Its architecture is unique: a structure decorated with pink granite, on one side it is crowned by a massive tower, and on either side of the main entrance there are huge figures with lanterns in their hands. In the station building you can find a pharmacy, shops, a tourist information point (where there are all kinds of maps and travel brochures), several cafes.
On the road
To the right of the railway station there is a bus stop, from where most depart regular buses, including those going to the airport, as well as a taxi stand.
For shopping lovers
Opposite the station you will see the most controversial building in the center of Helsinki – Makkaratalo, which means “sausage house”. The building received this name because of the ledge surrounding it (there is a parking lot there). Shops are located on the lower floors, offices are located on the upper floors.
By the way, about shops. Station Square can well be considered as a starting point for shopping in the capital's department stores. Directly through the underground passage from the station you can get to Sokos, Kamppi and Forum. There are also various shops in the underground passage itself.
Culture
On Station Square stands a beautiful castle-like building made of gray granite, topped with a red roof. This is (Kansallisteatteri). In its repertoire you can almost always find plays by the Finnish playwright Alexis Kivi (his monument is located near the theater). Directly opposite, on the opposite side of the square, is the Athenaeum art museum. And behind the National Theater is located big park Kaisaniemi (it includes the university botanical garden, in whose greenhouses many tropical plants grow).
Trade area (Kauppatori)
This is perhaps the busiest place in Helsinki. In summer, here you can buy berries, fruits and vegetables grown by caring farms, try local delicacies, and also find the largest selection of souvenirs and handicrafts in the capital. In October, the Silakkamarkkinat Herring Fair is held annually here, where you can taste a wide variety of fish dishes. And in winter there is a Christmas market. At any time of the year, tent cafes are open where you can have a cup of coffee and a snack.
Opening hours:
Mon.-Fri. 6.30 – 18.00
Sat. 6.30 – 16.00
Sun. (only in summer) 10.00 – 17.00
Attractions around
Nearby attractions are also worth noting.
In front of the square is the fountain "Havis Amanda" (Sea Nymph). This sculpture was made by Ville Wallgren and installed here in 1908.
Not far from the square is the Palace of the President of the Republic. For some time it housed the Finnish residence of the Russian emperors, and since 1919 this building became the palace of the presidents of independent Finland.
TO retail space adjacent to the Esplanade Park (Esplanadin puisto), where it is so pleasant to stroll in the summer in the shade of large trees. At the beginning of the park there is the famous restaurant "Kappeli", and opposite it is the summer theater "Espa", whose open stage in warm weather often also serves as a concert venue.
Very close to the square (Kanavakatu Street, 1) is the Assumption Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in Western Europe. It was built in the pseudo-Byzantine style by the Russian architect A. M. Gornostaev in 1868.
Senate Square in Helsinki (Helsinki, Finland) - description, history, location, reviews, photos and videos.
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The square in the form in which it appears to us now was formed at the beginning of the 19th century. The late classical style of the architectural buildings in this corner of Helsinki gives it a striking resemblance to St. Petersburg. It is no coincidence, since the main buildings surrounding the square were designed and built after Finland joined the Russian Empire, when a strict and majestic Empire style reigned in its capital. Almost all the buildings of that time were created by order of the government by the architect of German origin, Karl Ludwig Engel.
Historical excursion
After Finland was granted autonomy in 1812, it was decided to move its capital to Helsinki and rebuild it in a new style to enhance the status of the former provincial town. In the main square, the old buildings with the Church of St. Eleanor were demolished, and the solemn Cathedral of St. Nicholas was erected on a hilly eminence.
Construction dragged on for almost 22 years, and the architect Engel never lived to see its completion.
On both sides of the Cathedral, the square was built up in the mid-19th century with the buildings of the Senate and the University, then the National Library appeared.
In 1894, a monument to Alexander II was erected in the center of the square, thanks to whose reforms Finland received autonomy and Finnish was declared the state language. After 1917, when the country gained final independence, the cathedral was renamed, and in 1959 it became a cathedral.
What to see
The main decoration of the square, the Cathedral with snow-white columns, is crowned by a greenish dome, and in the corners there are 4 turrets, also ending with domes. On the pediments of the porticoes, facing 4 sides, there are zinc figures of the 12 apostles.
From the side of the square, a wide multi-step staircase leads to the church, but the main entrance is on the left, so the crosses on the domes are turned not to the south, towards the viewer, but to the western side.
On the stairs in good weather love to get together and make appointments local residents and numerous tourists. From here it opens good review, and on days when concerts or performances are organized on the square, the staircase serves as a kind of amphitheater for spectators.
The center of the square is occupied by a bronze statue of Alexander II, dressed in a military uniform. It is installed on a granite pedestal surrounded by allegorical figures of Peace, Labor, Light and Law. Since 2005, every day, at exactly 17:49, you can hear the square “singing”: a composition mixed from the ringing of bells, the sound of the organ of the Cathedral, and the chimes begins to sound. It is best heard at the foot of the monument.
Every day, at exactly 17:49, you can hear the square “singing”.
In the southern part of the square, houses of wealthy merchants of the 18th century have been preserved. In one of them, the Sederholm House, there is a Museum of Merchant Life, and exhibitions are also periodically held.
Anyone who is lucky enough to be in the square on December 13th will be able to watch the beautiful coronation ceremony of the Queen of Light, Lucia, who is chosen from 10 contenders. The Queen in a white robe, crowned with a crown of burning candles, begins a solemn procession, leaving the cathedral. This celebration dates back to the pagan traditions of the Normans.
Practical information
Address: Helsinki, Unioninkatu 29.
You can get there by metro to Kaisaniemi station or by trams No. 1, 1A, 3B, 7A, 7B.
This article will present one of the interesting historical places capital of Finland with its magnificent architectural structures (Helsinki, cathedral and much more). But first, let’s get to know the city itself and its main historical attractions.
General information about the capital of Finland
Helsinki is the largest Finnish city and the administrative center of Uusimaa (province). It is located in the south of the country, on the coast of the Gulf of Finland (Baltic Sea). In total, 630.225 thousand people live in it, 10% of which are foreign citizens. The city contains many cultural and historical attractions, including Senate Square. Helsinki is also one of the most unique cities in terms of its geographical location.
Location
The main part of Helsinki is located on a granite peninsula located on the northern coast of the bay. In addition, there are numerous rocky islands and islets with small bays and passages around it, representing magnificent, unique natural landscapes.
Helsinki is of great interest to numerous foreign tourists and travelers. This city is great for hiking, and for bicycles.
About the architecture of the city
Almost the entire square is surrounded by historical buildings built between 1818 and 1852, designed by the German architect Karl L. Engel. In total, more than 30 buildings were built according to his designs, and this number is only those architectural structures that were erected by him after Helsinki became the capital of the Duchy of Finland as part of the Russian Empire. In the 19th century, this city was even called the White Capital of the North due to its similarity with the style of buildings in St. Petersburg.
About some sights of the capital
Senate Square Helsinki is located in the central part of the city, in the Kruununhaka area and is undoubtedly the main attraction of the city. But besides this, there are many more wonderful historical places that attract a huge number of tourists and travelers from abroad. It is impossible to list and describe them, but some of them should be noted.
In the Katajanokka area (Cape Juniper), most of the structures and buildings were built in the 19th and 20th centuries. This once former cape is dominated by the largest Orthodox Church in Western Europe. This is the amazingly beautiful Assumption Cathedral.
In the Canavarante area (the canal embankment) there is a guest pier for yachts and boats, warehouses built in the 1800s. There are numerous shopping establishments and restaurants there.
There is also a museum street called Sofiankatu in Helsinki, which is the only museum in the city, open day and night. The entire amazing history of street construction and street equipment is presented here. The oldest building (Söderholm House), located in the historical part of the capital, is one of the branches of the city museum.
Senate Square (Helsinki): cathedral, photo, description
The square has its own unique history. In the 17th century, on the site of its current location there was a town hall, a market, a cemetery and a church. In 1812, Russian Emperor Alexander II proclaimed this city the capital of the Grand Duchy and gave the order to build a new urban center.
The entire territory is a unique complex, made in the neoclassical style. The main ones in it are 4 buildings, which were designed in 1822-1852 by K. L. Engel. These include the magnificent cathedral, the national library, the State Council building and the main building of the university.
Helsinki Senate Square (see photo above) has an amazing work of art on its territory - a magnificent cathedral built on a high hill. Its construction began in 1830. In 1840, after the death of the designer Engel, construction was continued by his successor Ernst Lohrmann. As a result, the cathedral was opened in 1852.
Initially, it was called Nikolaevsky, as it was dedicated to St. Nicholas (the patron saint of sailors), which was also an expression of a kind of respect for Nicholas II, by whose order the cathedral was decorated with sculptures of the 12 apostles located on its roof (the work of German sculptors). They were cast in 1845-1847 and were installed on the cathedral in 1849. The statues are an impressive collection of zinc sculptures of international significance.
In the interior of the cathedral there are statues of famous historical figures: Martin Luther, Michael Agricola and Philip Melanchthon. In 1959 the building received the status cathedral, after which he became the main one not only in the city, but also in the country. Both ordinary and ceremonial services are always held here, in addition, the cathedral is always open to the public. Helsinki's Senate Square is quite popular among many tourists. Its address: Unioninkatu street, house 29.
Other attractions of the square
Marvelous large number Senate Square houses historically interesting architectural structures. Helsinki was once home to Swedish merchants. Their beautiful mansions (built in the 18th century) were built on the southern part of this historical zone. Among them, the oldest stone house in the capital, Cederholma (1757), stands out, which today houses a museum in its premises.
To the right of the cathedral is the State Council building, part of which was completed in 1822. It is intended for the Imperial Senate and for the current government. Above the central entrance there is a beautiful room in the Empire style - the Presidential Hall (formerly the Throne Hall). There is no public access for citizens to this building.
In addition to all of the above, Helsinki's Senate Square also housed the central building of the university (1832 - the year of construction). Main building The university is presented in its original form (the same classrooms and main hall).
A bronze monument to the famous Russian Emperor Alexander II (author - Walter Runeberg, built in 1894) was also installed on the square in connection with the special attitude of the Finnish people towards him. As noted above, the Russian emperor granted autonomy to the Finns. The statue is surrounded by a sculptural group: “Peace”, “Law”, “Light” and “Labor”.
Helsinki's Senate Square contains a lot of rather interesting historical information.
Monument to Alexander the Second
This sculptural work is one of the few surviving pre-revolutionary monuments to the Russian Emperor - the great Tsar-Liberator.
It is the best achievement of Finnish sculptural art of the 19th century. The great sovereign is depicted here in the same appearance that he had at the time of his speech, which spoke of granting Finland those very rights of autonomy (1863). The Finnish people, as a sign of gratitude to their liberator, raised money on their own to erect a monument to the emperor.
The height is 3.23 meters, and it stands on a pedestal made of red granite. As a result, its total height is 10.67 meters.
The date of gaining autonomy is carved on the pedestal of the monument.
About the location of the square
Senate Square (Helsinki) accommodates a surprising number of interesting architectural structures on its territory. How to get there to see all this splendor?
This square represents the center of Helsinki. From central railway station it is located about 2 blocks east. You can also get there by tram, the stops of which are also nearby.
The square from the central port is approximately 2.3 kilometers. If you go on foot, it is advisable to follow Bulivardi Street. By metro you need to go from Ruoholahden station to Kaisaniemen. From Russia (St. Petersburg) runs every day minibus, which can take anyone right to Senate Square itself.
Conclusion
Senate Square as a whole, like almost all its architectural structures, is one of the most famous and remarkable symbols of the capital of Finland. The main square of Helsinki is the religious, political and social center of the country.
In the summer, Senate Square is filled with people due to the various concerts and festivals held there. But especially magnificent celebrations are held on the city’s birthday (June 12) and during the Helsinki Festival, which takes place here every year. All of them are amazingly colorful, spectacular and mesmerizing performances that are worth seeing.
For travelers who arrive in Helsinki by train, exploring the city begins here - from the Helsinki Railway Station and the square of the same name, which is also called Railway Square or Helsinki Station Square.
The train takes passengers straight to the very heart of Helsinki to the main railway station of the Finnish capital - an architectural monument, a monumental granite building with a clock tower towering over the city and the work of the sculptor, which has already become one of the symbols of Helsinki Emil Vikström(Emil Wikström), giants holding lanterns in their hands.
The station building was built according to the architect's design Eliel Saarinen(Eliel Saarinen). The opening took place on March 5, 1919, after long and difficult years of that time, during which construction was frozen for several years.
The adjacent area, which got its name - Railway Square, framed in the southern part by the street Kaivokatu, on which it is located Athenaeum Art Museum.
To the right of the museum is a building built in 1967. Citycenter, popularly called - Sausage house (Makkaratalo), which received its name because of the sausage-shaped element surrounding the building.
In the eastern part of the square there is a street Mikonkatu, on which it is located Grand Casino Helsinki, many cafes and restaurants with summer terraces.
In the northern part of the street Vilhonkatu, on which it is located. And in the western part of the square adjoins part of the street Keskuskatu, which translated into Russian means – Central street. Street Keskuskatu, which passes between Art Museum Atheneum and the building Makkaratalo, after many years of renovation work, was rebuilt into a pedestrian street along which you can walk to the building of one of the oldest department stores in Finland - Stockmann. And further along this street you will exit in the area Swedish theater to the famous Esplanade.
On the square opposite National Theater of Finland installed monument- the first professional writer in Finland and the founder of Finnish literature.
It’s hard to believe, but at the beginning of the 19th century, in the place of today’s Railway Square there was a seabed and this place was called Kluuvinlahti from the Swedish name Gloviken , which meant - Kloowi Bay. The name comes from the Swedish word Glo, which in turn meant shallow and overgrown. In Swedish the word “ Glo" sounds like " Glu” and, as is typical of the Finnish language, the word became stretched out and the letter “G” was softened by the letter “K”. Thus, the modern name of this area of the city came about - Kluuvi. Street name Kluuvikatu also comes from the name of the bay that was once here. Later this area was filled up.
Today this place is home to one of the most important transport hubs. Short-distance and intercity trains depart from here, as well as international trains V St. Petersburg and Moscow. Domestic bus routes and routes to satellite towns start here. Vantaa And Espoo. The metro line runs under the square and there is a station of the same name – Railway Square.
On Kaivokatu, opposite the building Makkaratalo, you can take one of the trams that run on many routes to different areas of the city Helsinki.
Except public transport or take a taxi, you can use a bicycle by renting it at a special parking lot right next to the station. In the city center there are equipped bicycle paths, with the help of which you can easily get acquainted with sights of Helsinki.
Photo of the train station at night: Ofelia de Pablo
Video about Helsinki: Morning awakening. At the hour when the city wakes up, the morning fog dissipates and the rays of the July sun warm the city embankments. A new day begins.
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