Statues Of The Apostles

Overview

High above Helsinki's iconic Senate Square, adorning the roofline of the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral, stand the impressive Statues Of The Apostles. These twelve imposing figures are a distinctive feature of the cathedral's neoclassical architecture, visible from afar and an integral part of the city's celebrated skyline. Crafted from zinc, each statue is approximately three meters tall, creating one of the world's largest uniform collections of zinc sculptures. They stand prominently on the gables and corners of the cathedral's roof, seemingly keeping watch over the capital of Finland.

The statues represent the twelve apostles, key figures in Christian tradition, and their presence adds a profound layer of spiritual and historical meaning to the already grand edifice. Their substantial size and strategic placement ensure they capture attention, prompting curious visitors to look closer at the details of this architectural marvel.

History & Cultural Background

The Helsinki Cathedral, originally known as St. Nicholas's Church, was constructed between 1830 and 1852, largely under the design of Carl Ludvig Engel. However, the Statues Of The Apostles were a later addition to his original vision. After Engel's death in 1840, his successor, architect Ernst Bernhard Lohrmann, made several modifications and additions to the cathedral's design. It was Lohrmann who commissioned and oversaw the placement of these striking figures.

The twelve apostles were sculpted by two German artists, August Wredow (who sculpted Andrew, Matthew, Jude, John, Philip, and Bartholomew) and Hermann Schievelbein (who sculpted Paul, Jacob, Matthias, Peter, Simon, and Thomas). They were cast between 1845 and 1847 at the S.P. Devaranne zinc foundry in Berlin and were finally erected on the cathedral's pediments in 1849 or 1850. This decision to add the statues was partly influenced by the architectural trends seen in models like St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg, and it served to visually balance the central dome with the main body of the church.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Statues Of The Apostles apart is their scale and material. They constitute one of the world's largest uniform collections of zinc sculptures, a testament to the ambition of the cathedral's later design phases and the craftsmanship of the mid-19th century. Their three-meter height ensures they are not merely decorative but command a significant presence on the Helsinki skyline, contributing to the cathedral's identity as a national symbol.

Beyond their physical attributes, their placement on the roofline is unique; they appear to 'guard' the city, a symbolic gesture reflecting the spiritual protection offered by the church. This visual narrative adds an emotional layer to the architectural grandeur, inviting contemplation on their significance.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Each of the twelve statues can be identified by their traditional attributes, offering a fascinating glimpse into their individual stories and patronages. For instance, Saint Peter is depicted holding the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, symbolizing his role as the patron saint of locksmiths and confessors. Saint Thomas, known for his architectural skills, holds a right-angle, making him the patron of architects, builders, and surveyors. Simon Zelotes is characteristically shown with a saw, signifying his patronage of woodcutters, tanners, and weavers.

These specific details encourage a deeper engagement with the sculptures, turning a mere observation into an opportunity to learn about biblical figures and historical symbolism. The renovation of the apostle statues in the late 1990s (1996-1998) was notably supported by public fundraising, highlighting their importance to the local community and their status as cherished cultural heritage.

Visitor Perspective

For any visitor to Helsinki, the sight of the Statues Of The Apostles atop the Helsinki Cathedral is unforgettable. As you approach Senate Square, whether walking up the grand staircase or simply admiring the view from below, the white neoclassical church with its green domes and the silent sentinels on its roof provides a breathtaking vista.

They are an essential part of the cathedral's exterior charm, adding character and historical depth to a structure that is already a major landmark. Looking up at these figures, one can imagine their gaze extending over the city, offering a sense of history and quiet guardianship. They invite visitors to pause, appreciate the architectural details, and consider the stories these ancient figures represent, making a visit to Helsinki Cathedral a truly enriching experience.