Hietaniemi Old Chapel, Helsinki

The Hietaniemi Old Chapel, situated in Helsinki, holds a special place within the esteemed Hietaniemi Cemetery, which is considered the most important burial ground in the country due to its rich historical significance. Established in 1829 on the western edge of the Helsinki peninsula, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for many Finnish dignitaries, heads of state, and more than 50 nationally and internationally recognized Finnish artists and their partners, notably in an area known as the Artists' Hill. The painter Akseli Gallén-Kallela was the first artist to be laid to rest here in 1943, marking the beginning of a tradition.

Dating back to 1873, the Hietaniemi Old Chapel is located near the Mechelininkatu entrance, nestled within the older part of the cemetery. Designed by architect Theodor Höijer, the chapel is accompanied by the Porter's house, another red-brick building also designed by Höijer in 1901. While Porter's house now serves as a waiting room for visitors and office space for cemetery staff after renovations in 2009, the chapel stands as a testament to the architectural and historical importance of the site.

In addition to the Old Chapel, the cemetery features the Heroes' Place, which includes the Heroes' Cross and monuments honoring fallen soldiers, symbolizing the nation's unity and history. Moreover, the newer chapel, located in the Hietaniemi area and designed by Albert Nyberg, was consecrated in 1933 and includes a columbarium for urns. It underwent renovation in 1996, demonstrating ongoing efforts to preserve and honor the site's historical and cultural legacy.