Saint Henry's Cathedral

"In the heart of Helsinki, Finland, amidst the bustling streets and modern structures, stands Saint Henry's Cathedral, a majestic edifice that has captivated hearts and minds for over 160 years. Dedicated to Saint Henry, a 12th-century Bishop of Turku, this neo-Gothic masterpiece serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Helsinki and stands as a testament to the city's rich religious heritage. The story of Saint Henry's Cathedral began in the mid-19th century when Finland, then a Grand Duchy of Imperial Russia, sought to establish a Catholic presence in the capital city. Construction commenced in 1858 under the guidance of German-born architect Ernst Bernhard Lohrmann, and by 1860, the cathedral's red-brick exterior and towering bell tower had graced the Helsinki skyline. Despite its completion in 1860, the cathedral's consecration was delayed until 1904, reflecting the complex religious landscape of the time. In 1955, Saint Henry's Cathedral assumed its current status as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Helsinki, marking a significant milestone in the city's Catholic history. Saint Henry's Cathedral is a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture, a style that flourished in the 19th century. Its exterior is characterized by intricate details, including pointed arches, flying buttresses, and stained-glass windows. The cathedral's interior is equally impressive, featuring soaring vaults, ribbed columns, and a sense of spaciousness that evokes a sense of awe and reverence."

"Helsinki's first Catholic cathedral dedicated to St Henry and built in 1860 to serve Catholics in the Russian army as well as Catholic merchants. Much like other churches in the area, it is a Gothic Revival style building and was designed by Ernst Lorhmann, the same person who finished the work on the Helsinki Cathedral. Unlike most of the other churches in Helsinki, it contains stained glass windows which are beautiful in the summer light. It is dedicated to bishop Henry who was one of the first people to bring Christianity to Finland in the 13th century. Mass is held in Finnish, Swedish, English, Spanish and Italian and the church is open throughout the day. "