10 Things to Do in Hämeenlinna Cathedral (Hämeenlinnan Tuomiokirkko), Hämeenlinna, Finland
Hämeenlinna Cathedral (Hämeenlinnan Tuomiokirkko) is a historic Lutheran church located in the city of Hämeenlinna, Finland. Built in the 15th century, the cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the country and is a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Hämeenlinna Cathedral.
1. Explore the Cathedral’s History: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest churches in Finland. It has undergone several renovations over the years and is now listed as a nationally important cultural site. Visitors can explore the history of the cathedral by taking one of the guided tours offered.
2. Attend a Service: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral is still an active church and services are held every Sunday. Visitors are welcome to attend the services and experience a traditional Finnish church service.
3. Visit the Crypt: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral has a crypt located beneath the church. This crypt was built in the 17th century and was once used to store the remains of the cathedral’s dead. Visitors can take a guided tour of the crypt and learn more about its history.
4. Climb the Tower: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral has a tall tower that visitors can climb. From the top of the tower, visitors can get a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
5. Check Out the Artwork: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral is home to a variety of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the artwork and learn more about the history of the cathedral.
6. Take a Photo: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral is a popular spot for photographers. Visitors can take photos of the exterior of the church or of the interior artwork.
7. Attend a Festival: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Hämeenlinna Cathedral Music Festival in July and the Hämeenlinna Christmas Market in December.
8. Admire the Architecture: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture and is known for its intricate stonework. Visitors can admire the architecture of the cathedral while exploring the grounds.
9. Visit the Museum: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral Museum is located in the basement of the church and is open to the public. The museum features artifacts from the history of the cathedral and provides visitors with a unique look at the history of the church.
10. Enjoy the View: The Hämeenlinna Cathedral is located in a beautiful setting and offers visitors a stunning view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a walk around the grounds and enjoy the scenery.
Visiting the Hämeenlinna Cathedral is a must-do for anyone visiting Finland. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful views, the Hämeenlinna Cathedral is sure to be a highlight of any trip.