Helsinki Cathedral (Helsingin Tuomiokirkko), Helsinki

The Lutheran Cathedral (also Suurkirkko or St. Nicholas Church) is Helsinki's most important landmark. The majestic outline of its 71 meter central tower illustrates the true glory of the White City of the North. The cathedral was designed by C. L. Engel in 1830; when Engel died in 1840, E. B. Lohrmann took over the supervision and added several touches to the original blueprints, including details in the simple yet beautiful interior. The cathedral was finally completed in 1852, though the famous grand steps would not be there for another 20 years. Despite the western, classical style, the influences of Russia and especially that of Czar Nicholas I are also visible. The cathedral's famous statues of the Apostles were originally Nicholas's idea. The Czar also donated the altarpiece, the work of Russian artist von Neff. The cathedral has a highceilinged crypt, a venue for exhibitions and concerts, and a cafe open every summer. The cathedral, decorated with s tatues of Mikael Agricola and the religious reformers Luther and Melanchthon, hosts both ordinary and more official (Government and University) services, as well as various concerts.