Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Alexsanterinkatu (Street) and the National Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko)



Alexsanterinkatu is a busy shopping street in downtown Helsinki.  It is the only street with Christmas decorations draped across the street.  Between the strings of lights are large "A's" which stand for Alexsanterinkatu.  The street was named for Alexander II from Russia.  This street runs past the national cathedral where there is a large statue of Alexander II in the middle of the church square.  This street is home to some very pricey real estate.





This picture shows the national cathedral.  It is really rather white.  It sets upon a hill and can readily be seen throughout Helsinki.  It is shaped like a huge fat cross.  The inside is not lavishly decorated like many European cathedrals.  It is Lutheran.  The Twelve Apostles adorn the four porticos.  There are three apostles on each entrance.  Climbing the stairs to the cathedral is much like climbing a pyramid in Mexico.  The small red huts are Christmas booths.  Like the street upon which they set, the prices are high.  We have visited it many times and it is time to let others spend their money!

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