Church of St. Lawrence
At the crossroads of two highways hides a piece of history - Helsinki Parish Village from the Middle Ages. In the middle of the village is the oldest building in Vantaa and the entire capital region, the Church of St. Lawrence that was built in the 1450s. The church is therefore older than Helsinki itself, which was only founded in 1550! The church combines the Middle Ages and the 19th century in a unique way, and the sculptures and the organ complete the ensemble. It's also a place for regular concerts, guided tours and other events.
The medieval stone church is older than the capital of Finland Helsinki!
Kirkkotie 45, Vantaa
https://www.vantaanseurakunnat.fi/english/about-us/churchpremises
+358 98306224
Church of St. Lawrence was built in the 1450s. Actually, there was a wooden church on that spot before, but it was demolished to make way for the glorious new stone church. The church and the lively village are therefore older than Helsinki itself, which was only founded in 1550! The church combines the Middle Ages and the 19th century in a unique way: in the 1890s, the church suffered from a bad fire that destroyed all the wooden structures. The sculptures of Mary and Child, a female saint and Saint Dominic are still preserved. Other notable details include e.g. stained glass and chandeliers, the oldest of which dates back to the middle of the 17th century. After the fire, the architect Theodor Höijer was responsible for the reconstruction of the church.
The church hall can fit 500 people and, if you’re lucky, you can hear the 37-stop organ playing. This church is one of the most popular ordination churches in Finland. Concerts, guided tours and other events are organized regularly here.
Meetings and groups
How to get there
Helsinki Parish Village and Church of St. Lawrence are located at the crossroads of Tuusulanväylä and Kehä III, so it’s easy to visit by public transport or by car.