Vanhakirkko is a beautiful, bright church surrounded by a garden with huge lawns and old trees. The residents of the capital sincerely love this church; for many years it has been considered the most popular place for weddings, christenings, and other family celebrations. This is not surprising, because the building itself, the surrounding park, and the bright, delicate interior of the church evoke only positive emotions and are perfectly suited for a joyful celebration.
This church was built in 1826 by Carl Engel. It was conceived as a temporary church until the majestic Николаевский собор was built. But its construction dragged on for a quarter of a century, and by the time it was completed the capital had grown so much that one cathedral was not enough to accommodate all the parishioners.
Therefore, it was decided to keep the Old Church; moreover, it received the luxurious altarpiece "Jesus Blesses the Children" by Robert Ekman, which had been intended for the Cathedral of St. Nicholas. Many valuables and items for worship were also transferred here from the church of Ulrika Eleonora, which was demolished. This is how the Old Church acquired an organ, chandeliers, and a gilded pulpit for sermons.
The church is built of wood in the neoclassical style. Above the roof, on slender tall columns, rises an elegant bell tower. The interior is distinguished by simplicity and elegance; everything here is done in white and gold tones - white benches, white walls, white columns with gilded capitals, and modest gilding on the altar, the church organ, and the preacher's pulpit.
