HELSINKI ROCKS
Helsinki is built on rocks. No wonder that we use rocks as our design partner. Many of the buildings in Helsinki are made of granite, the national stone of Finland, including the Parliament House (Eduskunta). In Helsinki you will not only find the most famous “Rock Church” with a beautiful interior. You will also realize that the official Practice Rink is built within the rocks. Skating inside a huge rock, isn’t that something.
Quarried out of the natural bedrock, Temppeliaukio Church (“Rock Church”) is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock. The church was designed by architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics the church is a popular venue for concerts.
It’s not just the rocks; Finns can also rock ’n’ roll. Great Rock Bands are from Finland, like Nightwish, HIM, Hanoi Rocks and Lordi. In the winter when it’s cold outside, you can warm yourself in the bars and nightclubs of Helsinki.
Tavastia rock club is a legendary venue for top Finnish and international bands. The smaller Semifinal presents up-and-coming stars. Urho Kekkosen katu 4-6. www.tavastiaklubi.fi
Rock’n’roll bar On the Rocks offers live bands every night and DJ’s playing rock tunes from the past and present. Bar is located in the heart of the city, next to Railway Station and the Ice Park. Mikonkatu 15. www.ontherocks.fi
The Arctic Icebar is a chilling experience! Inside the Icebar the temperature is a constant ‑5C degree. Upon entry to the Icebar guests are given a warm cape and gloves to wear. Yliopistonkatu 5. www.arcticicebar.fi
Ice Park in the Railway Station Square is the Finnish capital's mini version of New York's Rockefeller Centre ice skating rink. The Ice Park is in the heart of the city, making it easy for tourists and other visitors to enjoy this fun winter activity. Here you can rent ice skates or bring your own, have a hot chocolate at the onsite café and enjoy a variety of activities, such as skating with friends, listening to a live concert by a local band or participating in Icebic, a one-hour workout on ice. In the evenings you can skate under the moonlight or the stars if it's a clear night. www.jaapuisto.fi