Helsinki Cathedral was built in the period 1830-52. The church was designed by the German-born architect Carl Ludvig Engel. It was completed after his death by his successor E.B Lohrmann.
     The church represents neoclassicism with a floor plan in the shape of a square cross and seating for 1300. Lohrmann added four small towers and two ancillary buildings to the original plan, one of which functions as a clock tower and the other as a chapel. On the roof are statues of the 12 apostles. The altar-piece represents the

burial of Christ. It was painted by the artist T. K. von Neff and given to the church by the emperor.
     The Nicholas church was named after Saint Nicholaus, the patron saint of trade and seafaring, and Emperor Nicholas I. When Finland gained independence, the church was reconsecrated as the Great Church. Helsinki became a bishopric in 1959 at which point the Cathedral got its current name. In addition to the parish service, the ceremonial services of the Parliament and the University are held there.