Sunday

We found our way to the Cathedral (one of apparently only 2 Catholic churches in Helsinki) for Mass this morning.  It was a modest walk, and the weather has been really nice, so it wasn't a bad walk at all.  Apparently they were having First Communion, so the place was packed!  It was a very little church, seating perhaps only 180 people, but there was half again as many standing outside.  After church, we resumed our walking tour (started yesterday before lunch).  We saw the oldest stone building in Helsinki, Sederholm House, built in 1757.  (The picture is actually from Senate Square, taken yesterday.)

We passed the Russian Embassy, an imposing building, surrounded by broad grounds, and an unwelcoming fence.  Not surprising, but later in the walk we came across the Greek Embassy, an older building converted for the purpose, with sidewalk on three sides, and you could peek in the windows if you were tall enough.  What a contrast!

We also saw a guy walking his...CAT!!  An ordinary house cat, on a leash, apparently enjoying the walk about as much as you would expect!

We saw the "House of Scientific Studies" (Pictured to the Left).  We were not quite sure what went on there, as one might study science in any house, I suspect.  But, it is a nice building with what was once the largest bronze casting (the frieze) in all of Finland.

The house is right across from the Bank of Finland, and near the Engraving and Printing offices.  I was surprised at how small they seemed, having been to one of the two engraving facilities for the US Treasury, but I guess we print a lot more paper than Finland.

Near the docks, we found the Russian Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral.  It was situated high, and can be seen easily from far away.  It definitely is reminiscent of the churches we saw in Moscow, but is active.  So, the icons inside are much brighter.

They seemed to be setting up for something, so we did not stay long, but looked quickly.

We walked by the Finnish National Gallery (the Ateneum), and the National Theatre, and the Railway Station.  The Ateneum was a beautiful building, with wonderful architecture, and two giant garrish banners on each side bespoiling the look.  It was an architectural travesty!

Across the plaza was the National Theatre, also a striking building, and photogenic, but similarly blemished with unsightly banners. 

For the most part, we had no trouble finding our way around, but we did have a few spots that did not quite fit the map!

We'll leave the lounge here soon and find a light dinner.  They have a mystery meat (according to a nearby table, the votes were for reindeer, lamb, or elk).  Whatever it was from, it was tasty and tender! 

(Back from dinner) So, we went to a Nepalese restaurant for dinner, intending to just have something light.  It was the BEST Nepalese food I have ever had (also the first).  But, it really was good.  So, we are enjoying our after dinner drinks (back at the lounge), and wrapping it up.

P.S.  We found out the mystery meat here was lamb.  Should have guessed, since it was not ba-a-a-a-a-ad!