ENGEL, Carl Ludwig
(b. 1778, Berlin, d. 1840, Helsinki)

Exterior view

begun 1826
Photo
Lutheran Cathedral, Helsinki

Engel's most spectacular building was the Lutheran Cathedral in Helsinki. He designed the building in 1826 on the plan of a Greek cross, combining this with a monumental flight of stairs to the north. The four arms of the church, each of which has its own portico, appear like two interlocking Roman temples. Engel placed a central cube flanked by four small towers over the crossing, and topped it with a drum and dome. This spectacular structure would eventually become the city emblem of Helsinki.