Eduskuntatalo

Standing proudly on Arkadianmäki in the heart of Helsinki, Eduskuntatalo, or the Parliament House of Finland, is a monumental symbol of Finnish democracy and architectural splendor. This grand edifice, located at Mannerheimintie 30, serves as the meeting place for the Finnish Parliament and is a testament to the country's rich history and commitment to democratic governance.

The Historical Journey of Eduskuntatalo

The journey to establish Eduskuntatalo began in the early 20th century. With the first unicameral parliament elected in 1907, the need for a larger, more suitable meeting place became evident. Initial plans by Eliel Saarinen, who envisioned a massive national romantic parliament building at Tähtitorninvuori, were rejected due to high costs and political tensions, as Finland was still a part of the Russian Empire at the time.

For many years, the Finnish Parliament operated out of temporary locations, including the Helsinki Volunteer Fire Department building and Heimola House. It wasn't until 1923 that the project gained momentum again, leading to the formation of a committee tasked with planning a new parliament building. After a series of competitions, Arkadianmäki was chosen as the site, and the design by architect J. S. Sirén, submitted under the pseudonym Oratoribus, was selected.

Construction of Eduskuntatalo began in 1926 and was completed in 1931. The building was officially inaugurated on March 7, 1931, but the Parliament had already started its sessions there in early February. This grand opening marked the beginning of a new era for Finnish legislative activities.

Architectural Marvel of the 1920s Classicism

Eduskuntatalo is a striking example of Nordic Classicism, a style that blends elements of ancient Greek and Roman architecture with modernist simplicity. The building's façade, clad in reddish-grey granite from Kalvola, exudes strength and permanence, embodying the nation's resilience and democratic ideals.

The most distinctive feature of Eduskuntatalo is its grand colonnade. The façade is adorned with fourteen Corinthian columns, each rising to the height of the fourth floor. These columns, with their stylized capitals designed by sculptor Gunnar Finne, support a massive entablature and attic that give the building its monumental appearance. The symmetrical layout and classical proportions are reminiscent of ancient temples, symbolizing the enduring nature of democracy.

Inside, the building is equally impressive. The central feature is the circular plenary chamber, a novel design at the time. Natural light floods the chamber through a lantern-style skylight, creating an inspiring atmosphere for legislative debates. Surrounding the chamber are various offices and committee rooms, arranged around narrow light wells to ensure every part of the building receives daylight.

Expansions and Modernizations

Post-World War II, the Finnish Parliament's needs grew, necessitating expansions to Eduskuntatalo. In 1970, a design competition led to the creation of three new wings, completed in 1978, by the architectural firm Pitkänen, Laiho & Raunio. These additions, known as the A, B, and C buildings, provided additional office space, reception areas, and even the renowned parliamentary saunas. The extensions were carefully designed to blend with the original structure, preserving its iconic appearance.

Further expansions continued into the 21st century. In 2004, a new annex, later named Pikkuparlamentti (Little Parliament), was completed to accommodate the growing needs of the Parliament. This modern addition provided more office space and meeting rooms, ensuring that Eduskuntatalo could continue to function efficiently.

Comprehensive Renovations

To preserve its historical and architectural integrity, Eduskuntatalo underwent extensive renovations between 2015 and 2017. This comprehensive restoration included updating the building's technical systems, such as plumbing, heating, and ventilation, as well as restoring the original color schemes of the interiors. The iconic bronze sculptures in the plenary chamber were replaced with their original gilded plaster versions, and the building's granite façade was meticulously cleaned and repaired.

The renovation aimed to restore Eduskuntatalo to its former glory while ensuring it could meet the demands of a modern parliament. The project, completed in time for Finland's centenary celebrations in 2017, was a significant investment in the nation's democratic infrastructure, costing approximately 273 million euros.

A Visit to Eduskuntatalo

Visitors to Eduskuntatalo are treated to a blend of historical grandeur and modern functionality. Guided tours offer insights into the building's history, architecture, and the workings of the Finnish Parliament. Highlights include the impressive plenary chamber, the elegant Hall of State, and various committee rooms. The building's public spaces are adorned with artworks and historical artifacts, reflecting Finland's cultural heritage.

Eduskuntatalo stands not just as a seat of government but as a symbol of Finland's journey toward democracy and independence. Its imposing presence on Arkadianmäki serves as a reminder of the nation's resilience and commitment to democratic principles. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious about Finnish politics, a visit to Eduskuntatalo is a must when exploring Helsinki.