Kymi Church
Kymenlaakso
Kymi Church, located in the Helilä district of Kotka, Finland, is a striking example of neoclassical architecture built in 1850 and consecrated in 1851. It is the third church constructed in Helilä after two previous wooden churches were destroyed by fires in 1837 and 1843. Designed following plans approved by the Senate and the Finnish Intendant's Office under Carl Ludvig Engel's leadership, the church features a 14-meter-high nave and seating for nearly 800 people. Its interior houses significant artifacts, including the oldest communion chalice and wafer plate donated in 1731, Bohemian crystal chandeliers dating back to 1790, and church bells originally made in 1736. The altar painting "Jesus in Gethsemane" by Berndt Godenhjelm (1865) and stained glass windows by Tapani Lemminkäinen (1964) add artistic value. The church's pipe organ, built by Danish firm Bruno Christensen & Sønner in 1991, has 43 stops, continuing a tradition of notable organs dating back to the 19th century. Adjacent to the church is a war hero cemetery designed by architect Hilding Ekelund, featuring a memorial stone with a relief by sculptor Viktor Jansson. Kymi Church serves as a spiritual and cultural landmark in the Kotka–Kymin parish, welcoming visitors to experience its historical depth and serene atmosphere.
ヒント: Visitors are advised to check the church's official website for current service times and special events such as Easter services and concerts. The church offers nearly barrier-free access, including facilities for people with hearing impairments and wheelchair users. Parking is available on site. Booking ahead is recommended for group visits or special occasions. The nearby war hero cemetery provides a contemplative space worth visiting alongside the church.
興味深い事実
- •The church's oldest communion chalice and wafer plate date back to 1731, donated by Karl Henrik Wrangell.
- •Its Bohemian crystal chandeliers include one from 1790, showcasing historical craftsmanship.
- •Church bells were originally made for Forsby Ironworks church in Pernaja in 1736 and later installed here.
- •The altar painting "Jesus in Gethsemane" was created by Berndt Godenhjelm in 1865.
- •The war hero cemetery next to the church was designed by architect Hilding Ekelund, with a relief by sculptor Viktor Jansson.
歴史
The first church in the Kymi parish was a wooden chapel built in the early 18th century but fell into disrepair by the 1720s.
Subsequently, a wooden church was constructed in Helilä but was destroyed by fire in 1837.
A nearly completed replacement also succumbed to arson in 1843.
In 1847, plans for a new stone church were approved by the Senate, marking a shift to more fire-resistant construction.
This stone church, completed in 1850 and consecrated in 1851, has remained since, representing neoclassical style influenced by Carl Ludvig Engel's office.
Over the years, the church has preserved artifacts from its predecessors and undergone updates to its organ and stained glass artworks.
場所ガイド
Nave and Seating Area1850
The main hall of the church features a 14-meter-high ceiling and nearly 800 seats, designed in neoclassical style to accommodate large congregations.
Altar Painting "Jesus in Gethsemane"1865
An altar painting depicting Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, created by Berndt Godenhjelm in 1865, adding spiritual and artistic significance to the sanctuary.
Stained Glass Windows1964
Colorful stained glass windows crafted by Tapani Lemminkäinen in 1964, bringing vibrant light and symbolism to the church interior.
Pipe Organ1991
The current pipe organ, built in 1991 by Danish firm Bruno Christensen & Sønner, features 43 stops and continues a tradition of fine organ music in the church.
War Hero Cemetery and Memorial Stone20th century
Located west of the church, this cemetery honors fallen heroes. Designed by architect Hilding Ekelund, the memorial stone includes a relief sculpted by Viktor Jansson.
連絡先
電話: 044 7259158