What is the biggest church in Finland?
The largest church in Finland is Turku Cathedral, located in the city of Turku. This historic and architecturally significant building is the main church of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and at the same time also the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Turku. It is one of Finland’s most important cultural-historical monuments and a major attraction.
History of Turku Cathedral
The construction of the Turku Cathedral began at the end of the 13th century, and it was inaugurated in 1300. The church was originally made of wood, but was later built of stone. The church has undergone several expansions and changes over the centuries, especially in the Middle Ages and the 19th century. The church has also suffered from several fires, the most significant of which was the Turku fire in 1827.
Architecture and interior design
Turu Cathedral mainly represents Gothic architecture, but it also has Romanesque and Neo-Gothic features. The interior of the church is impressive, with several notable works of art and memorials. Particularly noteworthy are the church’s altarpiece, pulpit and numerous medieval tombstones.
The meaning and use of the church
Turu Cathedral is not only a religious center but also an important cultural and historical destination. It still functions as an active church where services, concerts and other events are held. The church is also a popular tourist destination, with thousands of tourists visiting every year.
Dimensions and volume of the church
Turu Cathedral is the largest church in Finland both in terms of surface area and volume. The length of the church is about 89 meters, and its tallest tower rises to a height of 85 meters. The volume of the interior of the church is approximately 45,000 cubic meters, which makes it the largest church in Finland in terms of volume.
