Senate Square has been Helsinki's main square since the 17th century. The square acquired its current appearance at the beginning of the 19th century, when Russian Tsar Alexander II moved the capital of Finland from Turku to Helsinki. Senate Square and its surroundings are a unique example of neoclassical architecture.

History of origin.

Senate Square has quite a rich history. In 1809, Finland was incorporated into the Russian Empire as an independent duchy, and three years later Helsinki was proclaimed its capital. Military engineer Johan Albrecht Ehrenström was appointed head of the city reconstruction committee, who commissioned the talented architect Carl Ludwig Engel to design and build about 30 public buildings in Helsinki. Many of his creations are located on Senate Square.

Architecture.

Senate Square is the most intact neoclassical square in Europe, which arose on the site of a church, city hall and market of the 17th century.
On the southern side of Senate Square, on Sofiankatu Street, there are mansions of Swedish merchants of the 18th and 19th centuries, among which stands out the oldest stone building in Helsinki - the Söderholm House, built in 1757, which today houses a museum. The remaining buildings are currently reserved for offices, shops and restaurants.
One of the main attractions of Senate Square is the Lutheran Church (formerly St. Nicholas Church). On the eastern side of the square is the building of the State Council, which was the Imperial Senate in 1822.
In the center of the square stands a statue of Emperor Alexander II (1894).
On the western side of the square, opposite the State Council, stands the main building of the University of Helsinki. Originally built in 1832, the building was completely destroyed in a one-day air raid in 1944, but was later restored, refurbished and reopened in 1948. The main merit of the architect is that he was able to create a single harmonious composition of buildings and structures on a fairly hilly area with protruding rocks here and there. This is why Helsinki is called the White Capital of the North.

Note to tourists.

In the summer, all kinds of concerts, festivals and other entertainment events are held on Senate Square. The stage is erected right on the square, and numerous spectators are placed on the steps of the cathedral. The most festive events held on Senate Square can be seen on City Day (June 12), and during the annual Helsinki Festival (mid-to-late August). Every day at 17.49 the composition “Sounds of Senate Square” is played on the square, which was written specifically to mark the end of the working day and the beginning of rest. The square itself is of little interest to the residents of Helsinki - only tourists stop to take photographs, while locals in a hurry just cross it.

Neighborhood.

You can stay in Helsinki near Senate Square at: Seurahuone Helsinki, Hilton Helsinki Strand, Klaus K Hotel, Holiday Inn Helsinki City Centre, Best Western Premier Hotel Katajanokka. More economical option: Eurohostel, Hotel Finn, Omena Hotel Helsinki Lonnrotinkatu, Omena Hotel Yrjonkatu, ANNA HOTEL. Near Senate Square are the Cathedral, Söderholm House, Esplanade Park, Athenaeum Art Museum and the National Museum.

Senate Square in Helsinki is considered the hallmark of the city and is located in the Kruununhaka area, where most excursions around the capital of Finland begin. This is the central square of Helsinki and one of the most intact European squares to this day. It took the place of the former market and city hall, and the old wooden buildings were replaced by neoclassical architecture.

Story

The square began to take on its modern appearance in 1812. Back in the 17th century, it looked completely different. The city hall, the small church of St. Eleanor, a cemetery and the city market were located here. These unsightly buildings did not fit into the city development plan and were dismantled.

When Finland was annexed to Russia in 1809, large-scale development of the city of Helsinki began. That is why the similarity of the architectural and compositional ensemble of Senate Square with St. Petersburg is so clearly expressed. The architect of the Principality of Finland was Karl Ludwig Engel. According to his design, in 1830-1852 the main cathedral of the Helsinki diocese was built - the Cathedral, which is also called St. Nicholas Cathedral. It is located on Senate Square on a hill and steps lead up to it.

In the 19th century, a university and a senate building, and then the National Library, were built on both sides of the square. In 1894, a monument to Alexander II was erected in the central part to honor his achievements, thanks to which Finland gained autonomy.

Now the paving stones mark the place where the Church of St. Eleanor was located back in the 17th century, and on the wall of the university library there is a memorial plaque with the names of the architect Carl Ludwig Engel and the topographer Johan Albercht Ehrenström.

Cathedral in Helsinki on Senate Square

The Cathedral or St. Nicholas's Cathedral was built on the north side of Helsinki's Senate Square in 1852. Its architect was Karl Ludwig Engel and then Erns Lohrman.

This Evangelical Lutheran church is considered the main one in the whole country. Among the architectural highlights, it is worth noting the central dome, surrounded by four small domes and zinc statues of the 12 apostles.

Monument on Senate Square in Helsinki

The monument to Alexander II is located right in the center of Senate Square. It was created by sculptors Johannes Takanen and Walter Runeberg, and installed in 1894. Dedicated to the Russian Emperor and Prince of Finland in memory of the restoration of parliamentarism. The monument depicts the prince himself on a pedestal in the uniform of a guards officer, as well as four figures below him, which have become a symbol of Peace, Enlightenment, Law, and Labor.

What to see

The Great Senate Square is paved with paving stones and covers an area of ​​about 9 thousand square meters. meters. It, along with the Cathedral, is often depicted on souvenirs from Helsinki. On opposite sides of the square are the following buildings: the Senate building, the University of Helsinki, merchant houses. On the steps rises the white, luxurious Cathedral of St. Nicholas (Cathedral), and opposite it in the very center is a monument to Alexander II.

Helsinki Senate

The four-story Senate building was built in the 19th century, the façade was completed in 1822. Two wings on Aleksanterinkat and Ririnkat were built a few years later. The building with the courtyard was erected in 1860.

Over the course of several centuries, many institutions have changed here: the postal directorate, the predecessor of the Bank of Finland, the National Archives, the customs department, the Alexander Pharmacy. And now the building houses the State Council of Finland, the office of the Prime Minister, and new laws are signed in the former Throne Room above the entrance.

Video “Helsinki Senate Square from above”

Merchant houses

The merchant houses located in the southern part of the square survived fires, reconstructions and now reflect the history of the city of Helsinki, being old residents. Among them are such famous buildings as the Bok House (1763) and the Söderholm House (1775).

Now the purpose of merchant houses has changed: there are cafes (Engel, Sunn), shops (goods for newborns Annl ja Aleksi, knives Marttini Oy, fashion accessories LUMI Supermarket - Flagship Boutique, souvenirs and gifts Vieno Puustjarvi Ky), restaurants (Chapter, a Finnish restaurant cuisine of Savotta Restaurant).

University of Helsinki

The largest and oldest university in Finland, which was originally called the Imperial Alexander University, is located on Helsinki's Senate Square opposite the Senate building. It was built in 1832 according to the design of the architect Carl Ludwig Engel and is very similar in its architecture to the Senate building. The university differs only in its Corinthian features. Inside the building there are copies of ancient statues. At the end of the 20th century, the university was reconstructed, as it was badly damaged during the war years.

University Library of Helsinki located to the right of the university itself. It was completed in 1844. The designer turned out to be the same Karl Ludwig Engel. The unique and largest collection of Slavic literature, which has not been affected by censorship, is stored here. Whimsical architecture, painted vaults and ancient books are the best things to see in the library, which is free to enter.

Events

A lot of interesting events are held on the main square of Helsinki, in which residents and guests of the city take part with pleasure. People from all over Finland come here for the unique holiday atmosphere.

Fairs, festivals, concerts, and public celebrations are often held on Senate Square.

Among the largest events, the following events should be noted:

• Kainuu Province Holiday organized annually and sometimes held on Senate Square. It is dedicated to the region in Finland that borders the Republic of Karelia. On the day of the celebration, guests and passersby can get acquainted with objects that reflect the life of the province: fishing, agriculture, livestock, forestry and mining, as well as the culture of the inhabitants. There is a fair here where they sell exclusive goods: baked goods, honey, jam, cheeses and much more.
• Day of the city, which is celebrated on June 12, is accompanied by music, a solemn ceremony, bright decorations, flows of people, and an open-air meal. All residents gather in the square to watch shows and performances by local artists.
• Christmas- the favorite holiday of the Finns. The Saint Thomas Fair is held on Senate Square. Outdoor shops sell sweets, ginger cookies, mulled wine, and souvenirs. The square is decorated with illuminations, a Christmas tree with bright garlands and toys is installed, and ice skating is organized.

Video: “Senate Square before Christmas”

How to get to Senate Square in Helsinki

To get to the central square of Helsinki, you need to take a tram No. 2, 4, 5, 7, 7Н to the “Senaatintori” stop.

The nearest bus stop is Riddarhuset. You can get here by on the bus No. 17. Next you need to walk along Aleksanterikatu Street for about 200 meters.

Nearest station metro- “University of Helsinki” (“Helsingin yliopisto”). It is located just 350 meters from Senate Square. When you get off at the station, you need to go along Fabianinkatu Street, then along Yloipistonkatu and turn onto Hallituskatu.

To Helsinki Taxi is in demand among tourists, because there is only one metro line and sometimes you have to cover considerable distances on foot. The following taxi services are popular: Espoo, Taksi Helsinki Oy, Tepin Pirssi Oy. It's even easier to order a car through the Uber app, and you can find out the cost of the trip in advance.

Ketch "Valborg"

Helsinki is a very beautiful city with amazing architecture. A rich history left its mark on its appearance. Arriving here, vacationers will be able to visit squares and museums, admire the beauty of churches and parks. Even a week may not be enough to get to know the capital - attractions here are located literally at every step.

Senate Square (Senaatintori)

It is best to start exploring the city from its cultural and historical center. The name speaks for itself: this is where the building of the Senate (now the State Council) is located. The University is located nearby, and opposite you can see the former residences of wealthy merchants of the century before last. In the middle of the square stands a monument to the Emperor of the Russian Empire, Alexander II, who did a lot for the Principality of Finland. Next to him are four figures, personifying law, peace, labor and light. The houses surrounding the square in a ring form a harmonious architectural ensemble.

Church in the rock (Tempeliaukio kirkko)

There are many religious sites in Helsinki, but the most unusual of all can rightfully be called the Lutheran Church in a granite rock. The avant-garde building caused a mixed reaction from society, but now Temppeliaukio is considered one of the symbols of the city, and even the most skeptical townspeople have come to terms with its original style.

The church hall is spacious, and part of the walls is made of raw rock. Light enters through the windows surrounding the huge dome, making it feel unfettered. The acoustics here are excellent, which is why the temple is often used for concerts. However, even on ordinary days it is worth coming here to listen to the magnificent organ, which has more than 3,000 pipes. There are no bells in Temppeliaukio; instead, speakers are installed in the walls, through which bell music written by Tanel Kuusisto is broadcast.

Entrance to the church is free, but you need to pay attention to the schedule of services. In summer, from Monday to Saturday, it is open from 10:00 to 17:45, and in winter from 10:00 to 17:00. On Sundays, Temppeliaukio Church starts an hour later.

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Another religious building, whose appearance will not leave anyone indifferent, is made in the classical pseudo-Byzantine style. The Assumption Cathedral, built at the end of the 19th century on the basis of the Katajanokka peninsula, is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Finland. It is built on a rock and proudly towers over nearby buildings. The outer walls are made of red brick, and the thirteen onion-shaped domes are covered with gold leaf. The main dome rises in the central part of the square structure, while the bell tower is located on the south side. From the platform in front of the cathedral there is a beautiful view of the whole of Helsinki.

The cathedral can be visited on all days except Monday. Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday - 9:30-16:00, Saturday - 9:30-14:00, Sunday - 12:00-15:00. If tourists want to attend a service, the time must be specified separately.

Market Square (Kauppatori)

Helsinki Market Square is worth a visit not only for shopping lovers, but also for those who want to see the daily life of the city. Along its perimeter there are retail outlets where everything your heart desires is sold - from delicacies to clothes and souvenirs. You should stroll here slowly, because Helsinki does not tolerate fuss. In addition to the tents, there is one of the symbols of the city - the Sea Nymph fountain, as well as an obelisk in honor of the Russian Empress Alexandra Feodorovna.

As with any market, trading takes place on weekends in the morning. It is especially interesting in the square during the Christmas holidays, when everything around is decorated with garlands. You can refresh yourself after shopping, and warm up in winter, in small cafes.

Sveaborg Fortress (Suomenlinna)

Sveaborg (“Swedish Fortress”) or Suomenlinna (“Finnish Fortress”) are the names of the same historical site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Currently, the fortification has passed to civilian control, but previously it served an important defensive function.

The fortress was built on islands located two kilometers from Helsinki. Lovers of history, architecture and military affairs will find a lot of interesting things here. Among the tourist sites are:

• Suomenlinna Museum (Suomenlinna-museo) – ticket from 5 euros;
• Toy Museum (Suomenlinnan Lelumuseo) – entrance from 5 euros;
• Military Museum (Sotamuseon Maneesi) – ticket costs 4 euros;
• Field Marshal Ehrensvärd Museum (Ehrensvärd-museo) ticket from 3 euros;
• Customs Museum (Tullimuseo) – free admission;
• Submarine museum "Vesikko" (Vesikko) ticket price from 4 euros.

Not the entire fortress is open to the public - part of it is reserved for the naval academy, and there is also a prison here. Interestingly, it is the prisoners who are responsible for maintaining order in Sveaborg.

You can only get here by ferry or water bus from the Market Square. A one-way ticket costs 4 euros. Tourists who decide to visit the attraction for the first time should remember that there is no transport on the territory of the fortress, so you need to wear the most comfortable shoes.

Winter Garden

The winter garden is a wonderful romantic place, perfect for leisurely walks. This is a kind of oasis of wild nature in the middle of the metropolis. Having crossed the threshold, you immediately find yourself in a tropical forest: birds are singing, vines are hanging from the ceiling. However, having walked a little further, one cannot help but notice the order prevailing here: the paths are strewn with gravel, and the animals are located in cages.

The territory is divided into several parts: a pool with fish, a cactus garden and an area of ​​exotic plants and flowers. Entrance to the Winter Garden is free, but it is only open until 15:00, and on Saturday and Sunday - until 16:00, closed on Monday. You can get here by tram No. 2, 4 and 7A, stop Töölön halli.

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

The Kiasma Museum is one of the “youngest” in Helsinki. It is dedicated to contemporary art in the broad sense of the word. The museum is not like classical galleries - rather, it is several creative platforms gathered in one place. There are a total of 25 departments, covering such areas as painting, cinema, photography, sculpture, music, architecture and so on. Exhibitions are constantly updated, and so that visitors can freely navigate the exhibitions, audio guides are issued at the entrance.

The museum is located at Mannerheiminaukio Square 2. Kiasma opens at 10:00, but the opening hours vary: on Tuesday it is open until 17:00, on Wednesday and Thursday - until 20:30, on Friday - until 20:00, on Saturday – until 18:00, on Sunday – until 17:00. Closed on Monday. The entrance ticket costs 12 euros, for students – 8 euros.

Aleksanterinkatu street

Aleksanterinkatu or Alexander Street is the historical center of Helsinki, the richest street in the city. Trade took place here several centuries ago, and nothing has changed in this regard since then. It is here that the stores of the most famous brands are located, as well as the largest shopping center in the capital - Stockmann. A visit to Aleksanterinkatu will be interesting not only for the purpose of shopping - the street itself is very beautiful. You can get here by bus (No. 4, 4A, 7A and 7B) or tram (3B).

Getting to know the city

By bus or tram

Bus tours around Helsinki start at the central station (Simonkatu 1) or at the port (Silja and Viking terminals). An inexpensive but very exciting alternative to a bus excursion is to explore the city on the 3T tram line. In this case, we recommend starting the excursion from the station, then the tram goes past almost all the main attractions of Helsinki. Along with the ticket, it would be nice to buy an accompanying brochure with a description of the objects that the tram rolls past.

On foot or by bike

The Helsinki Information Center brochure lists popular routes to explore the city and bicycle rental points.

On a boat around Helsinki

In summer, pleasure boats leave every hour (from 10.00) from the Market Square and from Hakanie Square - you can take a trip to the islands off the coast of Helsinki.

Leisure

Holidays in Helsinki do not have to be limited to visiting the sights - the city has a huge selection of places where you can spend time actively and fun. Of course, first of all, tourists will want to go on a trip by water. This can be either access to the open sea or a walk along the coastline on a boat. You can get acquainted with underwater inhabitants without leaving the mainland - at the Sea Life Aquarium. It has more than 50 aquariums, and under the largest of them, where sharks are kept, there is a glass tunnel.

The Vanhankaupunki Historic District is a must-visit for fishing enthusiasts. To catch fish in law-abiding Finland, you need to have a license, but you can freely buy it at the Meri-Info kiosks located in the Stockmann department store on the street. Aleksanterinkatu 52, or at the address: st. Unioninkatu 23.

Winter is perhaps the Finns' favorite time of year, and how can you resist the temptation to go ice skating or skiing, especially if all these activities are available in the city center. In addition to indoor ice parks and sports complexes located in Helsinki and the surrounding area, ski slopes and skating rinks are also poured directly in the open air.

A Finnish sauna is a must-see for any tourist visiting Helsinki. Steam rooms are installed right in houses, on roofs, and sometimes even on buses, and visiting them is an important part of the culture. One of the most colorful of public saunas is Rauhaniemi. Its peculiarity is that instead of an artificial pool, visitors plunge into the wormwood of Lake Näsijärvi.

Every year, from the end of August to mid-September, a festive atmosphere reigns in Helsinki for three weeks. There are concerts, performances, and various events organized everywhere. All kinds of performances are held in the capital's cafes and restaurants. The culmination of the festival is “The Long Night of Art”.

Shopping

Finnish-made goods, in particular clothing, shoes and interior items, are of high quality, for which they are highly valued all over the world. The choice of place for shopping depends on the product - you should go to the market for souvenirs and colorful handicrafts, but branded items can be purchased profitably in large shopping centers.

Woolen hats and sweaters with a characteristic pattern are usually brought as gifts from Helsinki. Warm and original, they will find a place in every wardrobe. Of the national brands, Marimeko has recently become popular - the items have an unusual bright design, but at the same time fit well with any style.

In addition, you can pay attention to bath accessories. They are sold both individually and as gift sets.

A traditional souvenir is also a kuksa - a wooden cup with a ring handle. In ancient times, the Finns took them on hikes, tying them to their belts.

The main shopping streets Esplanade and Aleksanterinkatu are lined with branded stores and small boutiques.

All the favorite foods of Finns (and sometimes visiting foreigners) can be bought at the market near the port. Opening hours: Mon. Sat. 6.30-14.00; in summer 15.30-20.00.

Not far from the Pitkasilta Bridge there is a market on Hakaniemi Square. The products here are a little cheaper than at the market near the port.

At the end of Bulevardi Boulevard is the Hietalahdentori market. It's worth visiting the central pavilion. Opening hours: Monday to Friday – 8.00-18.00, Saturday and Sunday – until 15.00.

How to save money in Helsinki

The national currency of Finland is the euro, and at the current exchange rate, even a short trip can be very expensive. To have a good rest and save money, it’s worth remembering some travel tips.

Free entry to museums

The schedule of most cultural sites includes days or hours of free visiting. So, in the Museum of Culture this time is from 17:00 to 20:00 on the first Tuesday of every month, the next day you can freely go to the Ateneum and Kiasma museums at the same time. On Fridays from 11:00 to 16:00 there is no need to pay for a ticket to the Museum of Finnish Architecture. In addition, the city has a huge number of free facilities, including churches and parks.

Saving on food

On most trips, food will be the most significant expense. However, if you cook your own food and buy food at the supermarket, you can save a lot.

Savings on purchases

Avid shopaholics should pay attention to outlets, of which there are a lot in Helsinki. Discounts can reach up to 70%.

When buying items as a gift, you should ask whether you can get a Tax Free refund. In stores operating under this system, you need to take a special receipt, which is stamped when leaving the country. A refund of paid VAT can be obtained directly from customs.

Directions

Of course, the best way to save on travel is to stay close to attractions. If this is not possible, and the tourist will have to use public transport every day, it is worth purchasing a single ticket. To do this, you need to contact the city transport department or the tourist office.

Accommodation in Helsinki

Visiting all the sights is a pleasant, but rather tiring experience, so you need to take care of accommodation in advance. Traditionally, most travelers choose hotels. The capital of Finland is a place where you can choose a suitable hotel that meets all the requirements for comfort, price per room, and range of services. Chain establishments such as Hilton and Radisson do not need a separate description, however, besides them, there are many interesting options. For example, Hotel Kämp is the epitome of elegance and chic. It is not surprising that this is where the world's elite prefer to stay. You can book a room and feel like you belong to the highest strata of society for as little as 200 euros per night.

Entrance to Glo Hotel Art

There are many more economical, but no less interesting hotels in the capital. Thus, Glo Hotel Art is a real medieval castle, Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel is an eco-hotel, all the interiors of the rooms are made exclusively from natural materials.

For those who plan to stay in Helsinki for at least a week, as well as tourists with children, it is better to consider this option as renting apartments (apart-hotels). Among them are Citykoti Downtown Apartments, Helsinki Central Apartments, Forenom Helsinki City Aparthotel.

There are also quite a few hostels in the city that will appeal to young people, as accommodation is inexpensive. Not far from the city center there are Eurohostel, Hostel Erottajanpuisto, Domus Academica and others. At the height of the tourist season, it is better not to delay choosing housing, since good profitable options are quickly sold out. You can find and book a room through our website using the link.

How to get to Helsinki

The fastest way to get to the capital of Finland from Russia is by plane. There are direct flights in this direction from Moscow every day. The journey will take no more than 2.5 hours.

Those for whom air transport is not suitable for some reason can use the services of Russian Railways. A high-speed train will take tourists from St. Petersburg to their destination in just 3.5 hours. But the journey from Moscow will last significantly longer - 15.5 hours.

Another option, which is also popular, is the ferry from the Northern capital. The approximate travel time is 13 hours, but this solution will be the most profitable for those who are used to traveling abroad in their own car - a car deck is available to passengers.

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 Building

The 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 room features quirky 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 luxurious house 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 the official residence of the mayor of Helsinki, the 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.

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 encircling 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 Athenaeum Art Museum 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 to 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.

In addition to public transport or taxis, 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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