Helsinki is known for its culture, museums, art galleries, theatres, and a huge national concert hall. But one of its most popular tourist spots is currently under construction
A holidaymaker who endured a gruelling 10-hour flight to witness one of Europe’s most celebrated attractions was left utterly stunned upon arrival. Young Cho had travelled all the way from South Korea to Finland specifically to experience Helsinki.
The Finnish capital is renowned for its rich cultural offerings, featuring an impressive array of museums, art galleries, theatres, and a magnificent national concert hall. Senate Square and its iconic cathedral rank amongst the city’s most sought-after tourist destinations.
This historic square houses some of Helsinki’s most ancient structures, with origins stretching back to the 1700s, and is flanked by the city’s majestic cathedral, the Government Palace, and the University of Helsinki. The location has persistently campaigned for recognition as a World Heritage Site.
Yet visitors to Helsinki today encounter a scene vastly different from their expectations. The cathedral is presently shrouded by a photograph of itself, with the frontage cordoned off by barriers whilst construction proceeds on a new underground power station, water well, and sewage infrastructure.
Authorities believe these improvements will benefit events hosted in the vicinity and enhance fundamental services. The project is expected to progress in stages through to November.
Queries have been raised regarding the timing of these works during peak tourist season. However, project construction team manager Annina Mattsson clarified: “The square was reserved for a defence forces event at the beginning of July, so work could not start before that. The work on the stairs will be completed before the Helsinki Festival in August.”
Young Cho will find scant comfort in the situation, having journeyed hundreds of miles only to encounter a photograph of the cathedral.
Speaking to MTV Uutiset, he expressed his frustration: “I think it’s very beautiful but this is just a picture. We flew here for 10 hours so it is a little bit disappointing.”
Swedish visitor Kristina Almén had hoped to capture a memento of the genuine church. She lamented: “Now I don’t know what this actually looks like.”
Yet some tourists have shown understanding towards the necessary restoration work. Danish traveller Henrik Caroe Gjellebol remarked: “Of course it would be nice to see it finished with the renovation but I fully understand it needs to be done from time to time.”
He added philosophically: “What can I say? I would love to see it another time when the renovation is finished.”
Canadian tourist Cindy Hardy, meanwhile, pointed to Helsinki’s other architectural treasures. She observed: “It’s a little disappointing because it would be nice to see it as it’s meant to be seen but Helsinki though has so many beautiful buildings so there’s lots to see.”
She continued: “We did notice that there’s a lot of construction going on or renovations but there’s so much beauty in all of the buildings around.”
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