The square as we see it now was formed in the early 19th century. Late classical style architectural structures of this corner of Helsinki.
A historical digression
After Finland was granted autonomy in 1812, it was decided to move the capital to Helsinki and rebuild it in a new style to raise the status of the former provincial city. In the main square, the old buildings and the church of St. Eleonora were torn down and the solemn St. Nicholas Cathedral was erected on a hillocky hill.
Construction dragged on for nearly 22 years, and architect Engel never lived to see its completion.
On either side of the Cathedral, the square was built up in the mid-19th century with the buildings of the Senate and University, followed by the National Library.
In 1894 a monument to Alexander II was erected in the middle of the square. Thanks to his reforms Finland gained autonomy and Finnish language was proclaimed the official language. After 1917, when the country gained its independence, the cathedral was renamed, and from 1959 it became a cathedral.
What to see
The main decoration of the square, the Cathedral with snow-white columns, crowned by a greenish dome and four towers in the corners, also ending in domes. On the pediments of porticoes facing four sides there are zinc figures of 12 apostles.
From the square a wide multistep staircase leads to the church, but the main entrance is on the left, therefore the crosses on the domes are turned not to the south, to the viewer, but to the western side.
On the stairs in good weather locals and many tourists like to gather and make appointments. On days when there are concerts or shows on the square the stairs serve as a kind of amphitheater for the audience.
In the center of the square there is a bronze statue of Alexander II, dressed in a military uniform. It is set on a granite pedestal, surrounded by allegorical figures of Peace, Labor, Light and Law. Since 2005, every day at 5:49 p.m., it has been possible to hear the square “singing”: a composition made up of the bells, the Cathedral organ and the chimes begins to play. It is best heard at the foot of the monument.
Every day, at 5:49 p.m. sharp, you can hear the square “sing.”
At the southern end of the square are the homes of wealthy 18th century merchants. In one of them, the house of Cederholm, there is a museum of merchant life, as well as periodic exhibitions.
Whoever is lucky enough to be on the square on December 13, will be able to watch the beautiful coronation ceremony of the Queen of Light, Lucia, who is chosen from 10 applicants. The queen, dressed in white and topped with a crown of burning candles, begins her solemn procession as she leaves the cathedral. This celebration dates back to the pagan traditions of the Normans.