Suomenlinna Church: A Fortress Landmark
Explore a historic church and working lighthouse in one at Suomenlinna, a unique landmark in Helsinki's sea fortress.
Suomenlinna Church, located on the island of Iso Mustasaari within the Suomenlinna sea fortress, boasts a rich history and a distinctive dual purpose. Constructed in 1854 as an Eastern Orthodox garrison church for the Russian troops stationed at the fortress, it was dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky. The church was designed by Konstantin Thon, a prominent Russian architect. Following Finland's independence in 1917, the church underwent a transformation in 1918, becoming an Evangelical Lutheran church. This conversion symbolized Finland's newfound sovereignty from Russia. During renovations in the 1920s, architect Einar Sjöström redesigned the church with a more Western aesthetic, removing the onion domes from the four smaller towers. Since 1929, the church's central dome has served as a lighthouse, making it one of the few churches worldwide with this unique function. The lighthouse, known as the Harmaja Range Rear light, works in tandem with the Harmaja lighthouse in the Gulf of Finland. Its signal blink pattern, '....', represents the Morse code for the letter 'H', signifying Helsinki. The church's bell, the largest in Finland, was cast in Moscow in 1885 and weighs 6,683 kg. While the bell is no longer in use, it remains on display near the church. Visitors can explore the church and its surroundings, including the old parade ground to the east and a park to the south. The perimeter fence, made of cannons and chains, dates back to the 1870s. The church is open to visitors throughout the year, with services held in Finnish on the first Sunday of each month.
Local tips
- Check the Helsinki Cathedral Parish website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and services.
- Take the Blue Route from the main pier to easily find the church and other key Suomenlinna attractions.
- Consider visiting during the summer for pleasant weather and lively atmosphere.
A brief summary to Suomenlinna Church
- C 43, Helsinki, 00190, FI
- +358923406126
- Visit website
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Suomenlinna main ferry pier, follow the clearly marked 'Blue Route'. The church is located on Iso Mustasaari island, about a 15-minute walk from the pier. The route is well-signed and passes several other attractions within the fortress. Note that the terrain in Suomenlinna can be uneven, with cobblestone and gravel paths. A slightly easier-to-walk route runs parallel to the Blue Route.
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Public Transport
Take the HSL ferry from Helsinki Market Square to Suomenlinna. Ferries depart frequently, and the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Upon arrival at the main pier in Suomenlinna, follow the 'Blue Route' to reach the church. A single ticket for the ferry costs €3 and can be purchased from ticket machines at the Market Square or via the HSL app.
