Rovaniemi Church
Completed in 1950 after the Lapland War, Rovaniemi Church is a symbol of rebuilding. At the top of the tall tower of the stone church designed by architect Bertel Liljequist is a cross that is lit up with a red spotlight. The cross is a metaphor for absolution, but the color choice of its illumination used to cause discourse amongst the churchgoers.
Completed in 1950 after the Lapland War, Rovaniemi Church is a symbol of rebuilding. At the top of the tall tower of the stone church designed by architect Bertel Liljequist is a cross that is lit up with a red spotlight. The cross is a metaphor for absolution, but the color choice of its illumination used to cause discourse amongst the churchgoers.
The beautiful Elämän lähde (Source of life) fresco behind the altar was painted by professor Lennart Segerstråle and his assistants. The fresco portrays the battle between good and evil and the return of Christ, but also has details from the Lappish nature. Other details of the church have references to Nordic wildlife too: sheep that are often used as a metaphor in the Bible have been replaced with reindeer, and one of Gunnar Uotila’s wooden sculptures visible on the church walls represents Finland’s national bird, swan.
Rovaniemi church is open to the public during summer, and every day during December. The church has 850 seats.
Address:
Yliopistonkatu 1
96100 Rovaniemi