Parliament House, Helsinki, Finland

Since 1907 the Parliament of Finland was convened in House of the Estates and Finnish House of Nobility. Both buildings became however too small for the 200 members of the independent Finland Parliament. In 1923 a competition was held to choose a site for a new Parliament House. Arkadianmäki, a hill beside what is now Mannerheimintie, was chosen as the best site.

The architectural competition which was held in 1924 was won by the firm of Borg–Sirén–Åberg. Johan Sigfrid Sirén was given the task of designing Parliament House. The building was constructed 1926–1931 and was officially inaugurated on March 7, 1931. Ever since then, and especially during the Winter War and Continuation War, it has been the scene of many key moments in the nation's political life.

Sirén designed Parliament House in an architectural style combining Neoclassicism with early twentieth century modernism. The exterior is red granite and the façade is lined by fourteen columns with Corinthian capitals. The building has five floors, each of which is unique. The floors are connected by a white marble staircase and famous paternoster lifts. Most important for visitors are the main lobby, the stately Session Hall and the large Hall of State.

Guided tours are arranged in Parliament house. Tuesdays and Fridays you can watch the Parliament in session from the public balcony.

Reference: Wikipedia

User Reviews

Philip Greener (7 months ago)
3 fav about Finland: the happiest country in the world like 6 years running, cool calm level-headed balanced people, lovers of comfort pleasure saunas community wellfare taking care of each other sustainability innovation respect peace love dialogue rationality emotional intelligence etc etc etc!!!

Paul Heller (16 months ago)
The outside of the parliament building is very imposing. Located near the museums and Kaampi, it's worth a detour for a few photos. Can walk up the stairs no problem.

Stanislav Nikitin (18 months ago)
Monumental building faced with granite. Guided tour can be booked in advance. Tours are always free for group from 6 to 200 persons. Our guide was very polite and professoonal and answered dozen of our curious questions. Children got memory gifts afterwords.

Jorge (19 months ago)
The imposing building of the parliament was my favourite in Helsinki. Built in the 20s last century, free guided tours are offered to visit the interior. Sadly could not do it, we had bad timing.

Lijoys 1 (2 years ago)
The building is a beautiful design. I found it on my way to the rock church. I spent some time in front of it to take some pictures

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