Helsinki day one cont'd and day two

Uspenski Cathedral.  Finland was under Russian rule for more than 100 years - you can see reminders of this all over the city.  The biggest is the Cathedral.  "It is set upon a hillside on the Katajanokka peninsula overlooking the city. On the back of the cathedral, there is a plaque commemorating Russian Emperor Alexander II, who was the sovereign of the Grand Duchy of Finland during the cathedral's construction. Main cathedral of the Finnish Orthodox Church in the diocese of Helsinki, Uspenski Cathedral is claimed to be the largest orthodox church in Western Europe.  

Designed by the Russian architect Aleksey Gornostayev (1808–1862). The cathedral was built after his death in 1862–1868".

The large center dome represents Christ and the twelve smaller domes the Apostles.

It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Very ornate)

This huge fellow stands in the harbor square.   Called "Bad Boy" of Helsinki.  Really!!!

On the way back to the hotel, went through the market again.  Bought a silver ring and went to look at the rabbit hat again.  Couldn't resist.

Tried on the mink, but like this one better and less costly.  Rabbit; soft and warm

After dinner at the hotel

Day two

Ready for our archipelago tour.  It is only in the 50's today and cloudy, so not very warm on the water.  She actually forgot her scarf so ran back off the boat to the market and bought a scarf.

Now she's ready to go

Helsinki has several inhabited islands. These are both restaurants

Many homes 

Saunas.  The Finns love their sauna's.  These are two examples.  They sit in the hot sauna and then go for a dip in the baltic.  Brrrrr

Even apartment buildings have sauna's.  Each family is designated a day in which they may use the communal sauna.  Most do the sauna at least once a week.

Kayaker following us through a canal

Finnish ice breakers.  This harbor freezes in winter.

Following the tour we walked around and found a little restaurant for lunch and coffee.  Had a very good beet salad.  Passed a wild looking shoe store and couldn't resist going in to look. 

Did not buy.

Walked back to hotel and waited for our transport to the ship to St. Petersburg, Russia.  I could have spent a little more time in Helsinki.  Liked it very much.