Architecture

Even if Tampere was only founded in 1779, the city has one example of older architecture, the medieval Messukylä Old Church. This is explained by the fact that the town and parish of Messukylä were later annexed to Tampere proper. For visitors, the Messukylä Old Church is open in summer.

Several other churches are also worth seeing. The Alexander Church (1881) represents the Neo-Gothic style whereas the Orthodox Church (1899) is a good example of Neo-Byzantine architecture.

One of Finland's most unique art treasures, the lutheran Cathedral (1907, picture above) was built in the national romantic style at the beginning of the 20th century. At the time of their completion, the altar fresco by Magnus Enckell and the other frescoes and stained glass windows by Hugo Simberg caused a scandal but today they are regarded as undisputed masterpieces.

Art Nouveau buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries include the Tirkkonen house on the corner of Kuninkaankatu and Kauppakatu as well as the Kauppahalli indoor market (1901), the Commerce building (Hämeenkatu 17), the Sumelius house (Keskustori 1) and the Palander house (Keskustori 7) around the Central Square. The main fire station (1908) at Satakunnankatu 16 was designed by  one of Finland's first female architect, Wivi Lönn from Tampere.

Pietiläs' architecture

As to modern architecture, renowned Finnish architects, Reima and Raili Pietilä created numerous of their best masterpieces in Tampere.

Completed in 1966, the Kaleva Church is a modern concrete temple and an impressive concert venue.

The main library building called Metso (picture above) was completed in 1986. The facade materials are granite, copper and wiborgite.

The third big project of the Pietiläs in Tampere was the shopping and service centre and the church in the suburb of Hervanta. From the centre, take bus number 30 and have a look!

Industrial architecture

As a cradle of Finnish industry, an essential part of Tampere's architecture is linked with its industrial heritage.

Especially, the Finlayson cotton mill area presents a fine example of the red brick factory complexes, so typical of Tampere. Today, the converted buildings host museums, galleries, shops and restaurants, and make one of the liveliest quarters in the city centre. For more information, see here.