Domcafé

A small and idyllic Domcafé is located in the stone foundation of Turku Cathedral. The café operates in a vaulted cellar dating back to the 15th century and is therefore likely the oldest café space in Finland.

As part of the renovation, Domcafé will expand into the adjacent brick storage space, a medieval vaulted room. The two vaulted spaces in the basement of St. Ursula’s Chapel date back to the 15th century. Over time, they have served various functions, but have often been used for storage, as the name “brick storage” suggests.

Domcafé has been serving customers since 1995. The café originated from an idea by verger Teuvo Rantala, with parish mission priest Anneli Rantalaiho also playing a key role as a driving force. The name Domcafé had already been in use for a few years before the café was established. Erkki Alikoski, a diploma organist who worked at the Cathedral for many years, used to kindly say to his colleagues, “May I offer you a cup of Domcafé?” In the very beginning, the café operated as a tent café on the front entrance terrace. The current premises were completed in spring 1997.

Domcafé’s activities rely strongly on the contribution of volunteers and a shared commitment to mission work. The café’s proceeds are directed to the Children’s Bank of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission, which supports the well-being of children and young people in developing countries. Each year, Domcafé donates significant sums to charity, and every cup of coffee concretely helps children around the world. The café emphasizes responsibility and local products.

In 2025, Domcafé celebrated its 30th anniversary with festivities and a small historical publication. The renovation of the Cathedral brings new opportunities to expand and develop the café’s premises and services. Domcafé will continue its mission as a promoter of community, responsibility, and mission work in the future.