Rovaniemi Church

A beautiful and peaceful church in the heart of Rovaniemi. The Church was rebuilt in 1950 after the original was destroyed during World War II. The architect Bertel Liljequist designed the new building, with help from churches in Sweden and the United States. Inside, the altar has a huge fresco called “The Source of Life,” painted by Lennart Segerstråle. It is one of the largest altar paintings in Finland, measuring 14 by 11 meters. The church also features a large kantele, which visitors can play themselves.

This sanctuary boasts stunning architecture and a captivating past. Its doors are open to all who wish to experience its beauty. Remember to maintain a quiet reverence during your visit, as services are still held here. The historical significance of this building is immense and worth appreciating. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquility and heritage of this special place.

We went here for a wedding and boy did it surprise us. The exterior looks kind of plain and dreary, but the inside was amazing with a floor to wall mural in the back and for 100 meter ceilings!

Beautiful church, lots of amazing murals and details in it. I'm not a religious man but I'm glad I took the time to admire it, it's impressive. While I was there I bought a hot drink from the machine to support a project.

It is one of at least a hundred churches in northern Finland and Norway built after the earlier one was destroyed when retreating Nazis burned all the north cities. It isn't particularly unique but appears strong and stoic; maybe a symbol of Finnish sisu.

Opening times do vary, but a beautiful church with an outside appearance and design giving it a much older period look than it actually is. Interior still very beautiful, but less period. Red lit cross on the top of the spire very unusual. Well worth a visit.

The pastor at the church was so incredibly nice and helpful. The church itself is incredible and so well taken care of. Thank you for everything.

Some 25 years before the McD culture invaded R, I found refuge here after hitchhiking up from central Europe. A serene, simple, quiet place, an anchor of stability, a safe harbor for my mind. My (ego) trip forced me to cross the Arctic circle, and yes, I am glad I did. Further north than Reykjavik, Rove remained the northernmost point for me throughout my life. More importantly, the people were very friendly, helpful, and the little town with its cozy church deserved my lifelong appreciation.