History of Turku Cathedral
The history of Turku Cathedral reaches far back into the past. It was consecrated as a Cathedral (that is, a bishop’s church) on an estimated date of 17 June 1300. The Cathedral is a treasure trove for historians and history enthusiasts alike. On these pages, you can explore the history of the Cathedral century by century.
More information, suggestions for literature and genealogical materials can be found on the research help page.
Seven centuries of Turku Cathedral
We do not know for certain when Turku Cathedral was consecrated as a Cathedral. The most common estimate for its “birthday” is 17 June 1300. Based on this, the Cathedral is already over 700 years old.
14th century
At first, the Cathedral was still small and made of wood, and it burned down in 1318. By the end of the century, however, a larger and more impressive church was already being built.
14th century
15th century
During the 15th century, the Cathedral was developed into a grand church that rivaled—and still rivals—the great cathedrals of Central Europe. The entire century marked the golden age of the Catholic era.
15th century
16th century
The Reformation shook the Kingdom of Sweden in the 16th century. During the reign of King Gustav Vasa and his sons, Mikael Agricola also made his mark in the Cathedral.
16th century
17th century
In the 17th century, Europe was ravaged by the Thirty Years’ War, in which Protestants and Catholics clashed fiercely while states also sought to expand their territories. In Turku Cathedral, this war is still clearly visible today in the form of several funerary monuments dedicated to military commanders.
17th century
18th century
The Great Wrath in the early 18th century brought Russian occupation to Finland. The bones of Bishop Henry were stolen from the Cathedral and disappeared. At the same time, Turku grew, and space in the Cathedral became cramped both below and above ground.
18th century
19th century
The most famous event in the Cathedral in the 19th century is the Great Fire of Turku in 1827. The fire completely destroyed the interior of the Cathedral. Its current appearance dates from the period after the fire. The frescoes, altarpiece, pews, and other elements all reflect the 19th century.
19th century
20th century
A great deal also took place in the Cathedral during the 20th century. Wars caused difficulties, but research was also carried out.
20th century
21st century
Today, the Cathedral still stands on Unikankare hill. It is a beloved church for many, and the heart of Turku.
21st centuryThe history texts were written by university trainee Henna Ala-Lehtimäki.