Helsinki, Finland, Rock Church Organ Postcard

Organ builder Veikko Virtanen manufactured this magnificent church organ in Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki, Finland. The organ has 43 stops and 3001 pipes. Temppeliaukio Church, a Lutheran church in the Toolo neighbourhood of Helsinki, Finland, was designed by architects and brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and opened in 1969. Built directly into solid rock, it is also known as the Church of the Rock and Rock Church. The interior was excavated and built directly out of solid rock and is bathed in natural light which enters through the skylight surrounding the centre copper dome. The church was built partially into the earth so as not to disturb its neighbourhood. The church is used frequently as a concert venue due to its excellent acoustics. The acoustic quality is created by the rough rock surfaces. Half a million people visit the church every year, making it one of Helsinki's most popular destinations.