The clouds cooperated this morning and I explored a few cathedrals and a little of the city. First up: Helsinki Cathedral. Nothing feels so quintessentially European to me as a gigantic cathedral, and this fits the bill nicely. This was designed by Carl Ludvik Engel and erected between 1830-1852. 

Helsinki Cathedral Helsinki Cathedral Helsinki Cathedral

The organ is undergoing minor repairs, but it's stunning. 

Helsinki Cathedral organ

I'd like one of these for my house, please.

This gilded angel statue took my breath away. Sculpted by Gustav Bläser. 

Helsinki Cathedral angel

I am not a religious person, but I lit a candle for my country today, sending light and love home in this scary, trying, awful time.

It's only a short walk down the hill from the Helsinki Cathedral to Katajanokka island. I was surprised by this bridge of love, Rakkauden silta, covered in locks. 

love bridge locks love bridge locks The water was a bit frozen here and there, locking in the buoys and making for some nice reflections. Winter grey brings out every little pop of color, showing off things that get lost in vibrant spring and summer.

Katajanokka island views Katajanokka island views Katajanokka island views

Up a steep hill and around a corner, I came to the Uspenski Cathedral. It's the Russian orthodox church, hulking overhead and rocking a serious Hogwarts vibe. This one went up in 1868, designed by Aleksey Gornostayev. I wasn't able to go inside today but I may go back. It's spectacular.

Uspenski Cathedral As I was shooting, the sun peeked out and set the golden domes ablaze. 

UIspenski Cathedral spires and domes

Uspenski Cathedral domes & spires

I spied the top of the skywheel from the hill and made my way down just in time to catch today's 35 seconds of miraculous sunshine. Look closely: you'll see that one cabin on the wheel is different from the others. OF COURSE it's a sauna cabin. On the skywheel. Finland is amazing: sauna in the sky.

Skywheel Skywheel Skywheel Skywheel

Passed this happy fellow on my way back to the hotel. He's part of the Havis Amanda fountain in the center of town. Sculpted by Parisian Valle Valgren and erected in 1908, there is also a lovely nude, but I was way more into the sea lions.

Sea lion I am hoping to catch up with an old friend in town this week, and still mean to make my way to the modern art museum. I'm working my way down the lists of things to see and do here. Yes, it's cold, but I am so lucky to be able to travel and see new places. And as ever, I'm thrilled to share them with you. Thanks for visiting!