Temppeliaukio Church

Temppeliaukio Church, in Helsinki

Temppeliaukio Church, or the Church in the Rock, is a unique sanctuary carved into the rock, in Helsinki. The Helsinki audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this unusual building with a copper dome, a masterpiece of Finnish architecture.

The church carved into the rock

Temppeliaukio Church, nicknamed the Church in the Rock, is one of the most original and visited buildings of Helsinki. Inaugurated in the 1960s, it was directly carved into an outcrop of granite rock, whose raw walls constitute the interior walls. It is topped with a vast copper dome, supported by radiating beams and surrounded by a crown of glass that lets in natural light. This meeting between raw stone and copper creates a singular and soothing atmosphere, and gives the place an exceptional acoustics, prized for concerts. A masterpiece of Finnish architecture, Temppeliaukio Church is discovered with respect.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the church carved into the granite rock, with raw walls, topped with a vast copper dome surrounded by glass letting in the light, with a soothing atmosphere and exceptional acoustics. Temppeliaukio Church is a masterpiece of Finnish architecture. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

Temppeliaukio Church lies in the centre of Helsinki, reachable on foot and by public transport. A place of worship and a much-visited site, it can be visited with respect; access follows its own hours and conditions, which vary with celebrations and concerts. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Why is Temppeliaukio Church unique in Helsinki?

Because it was directly carved into a granite rock, whose raw walls form the walls, and topped with a copper dome surrounded by glass; this Church in the Rock offers an exceptional atmosphere and acoustics.

Where is Temppeliaukio Church?

In the centre of Helsinki, in Finland.