The Coolest Church in Helsinki
A church carved from stone in Finland's capital
Smack in the middle of Helsinki, wandering the neat streets, you'll find what might be the most unique Lutheran church in the world (feel free to prove me wrong, if you can!). Known as the Church of the Rock, Rock Church, or Temppeliaukio Church, it was built in 1969, carved directly into--you guessed it--solid rock. The copper roof, the excellent acoustics, and the sheer daring of the architects make this a must-see in Helsinki. The church is magnifcent from above on the balcony, and really, from every angle. The nooks and crannies behind the stones--rough hewn to enhance those acoustics--will give you something to explore for much longer than you might spend in a normal church. There's certainly not much normal about the Church of the Rock--and once you visit, you'll be grateful for that!
