One of the key attractions in Helsinki is the Russian Orthodox Church of Alexander Nevsky. It was built long before the February Revolution and later transformed into a lighthouse, but let's go in order. In 1854, the magnificent Church of Alexander Nevsky was erected on the grounds of the Russian, formerly Swedish, fortress of Sveaborg. Its construction was initiated by the personal decree of Emperor Nicholas I, who, being a talented engineer, paid great attention to architecture. Many buildings created under his guidance have survived to this day. Although Nicholas I could not personally oversee the construction of the church, all necessary orders were given. The construction was complicated by the fact that it took place during the Crimean War. However, despite this, the work progressed so quickly that soon the five-domed cathedral was consecrated and began to serve its purpose.

The design of this beautiful temple was developed by the outstanding Russian architect Konstantin Ton, who left his mark in many cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. His main work was the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, destroyed by the Bolsheviks in 1931. This time, the architect did not disappoint; the cathedral turned out to be truly magnificent. Unfortunately, the temple had to endure many trials: just a year after its completion, an enemy squadron dealt a powerful blow to the fortress, but the cathedral itself remained unharmed. This event was perceived as a miracle and amazed the people.

After the February Revolution of 1917, Finland gained independence, and the temple found itself on the territory of another state. Fortunately, the Finns did not destroy symbols of Orthodoxy as ruthlessly as was done in the USSR, but in 1927, changes also affected the Church of Alexander Nevsky. First, it lost its domes, and instead, a lighthouse appeared on the roof, and later the building was converted into a Lutheran church. Today, in the appearance of the Lutheran lighthouse church, it is difficult to recognize the former Church of Alexander Nevsky, but the building remains one of the symbols of its era.