The Parliament of Finland, the Eduskunta, is one of the world`s oldest functioning legislative bodies operating on the principle of universal and equal suffrage. Its history began in 1906 when the Grand Duchy of Finland, then part of the Russian Empire, made a revolutionary move for its time: Finland became the first European country to grant all women the right to vote, and the second in the world after New Zealand.
The first unicameral parliament of 200 members was elected in 1907. The modern building, symbolizing the country`s independence and sovereignty (declared in 1917), was constructed much later and became an architectural manifesto of the young republic.
Architecture: Strict Monumentalism and National Romanticism
The Parliament House, built between 1926 and 1931, is the pinnacle of the work of the prominent Finnish architect Johan Sigfrid Sirén. It is a prime example of the "monumental classicism" style, adapted to the Nordic context and Finnish identity.
Materials and Façade: The dominant material is local red granite from Kalavi, quarried in the Savo region. Its rough yet noble texture symbolizes strength, stability, and connection with nature. The building`s façade is severe, geometric, and devoid of excessive decoration. Note the massive colonnade of the Corinthian order with 14 columns at the main entrance—a reference to the classical ideals of democracy, yet executed in rugged Finnish stone.
Symbolism: The rectangular shape of the building and its location on a slight elevation (Arcadia Hill) were intended to associate it with a "temple of democracy" or "fortress of law." It consciously contrasts with the white neoclassical buildings of Senate Square, representing a new, independent chapter in the nation`s history.
What`s Inside: Key Spaces of Interest
The Plenary Hall (Session Hall): The heart of the building. Note its stepped, amphitheatre-like form, which emphasizes the equality of all members of parliament. Above the hall hangs a unique concave coffered ceiling supported without a single column—a technical marvel of its time.
The Library: Wooden paneling, silence, and an abundance of light create an atmosphere of concentration. All official state documents are stored here.
The Fresco in the Reception Hall: In the eastern wing is the large-scale fresco "My Country" by artist Eero Järnefelt, depicting the industrialization and nature of Finland. It is a hidden gem of the interior.
Sculptures: Inside and outside the building, there are numerous works by Finnish masters, such as the sculptural group "Labour and the Future" at the main entrance.
Practical Information for Tourists
Can you enter? Yes, and it`s free. The Parliament is open for visits with guided tours conducted in Finnish, Swedish, and English. This is one of the few opportunities in the world to freely enter an active government building of this level. On plenary session days (usually Tuesdays and Wednesdays), debates can be observed from the public gallery.
How to visit: It is necessary to book a tour in advance via the Parliament`s official website. A valid ID (passport) is required. All visitors pass through security control similar to airport procedures.
What`s included in the tour: A visit to the main halls, including the Plenary Hall, with a presentation on the history of Finnish parliamentarism, its principles of operation, and architecture. The tour lasts about one hour.
Tips
• Visit the public information centre Eduskunta (Kansalaisinfo), located in the building. Brochures are available there, and sometimes you can speak with staff.
• Look around the surrounding area: the square in front of the Parliament is a site for public demonstrations and events. Nearby is a statue of Finland`s first President, K.J. Ståhlberg.
• Photograph the building in the evening: when the facade lighting is turned on, the granite takes on a particularly imposing appearance.
The Parliament of Finland (Eduskunta) is the unicameral supreme legislative body of the country. The Parliament House (Eduskuntatalo), completed in 1931, functions as the workplace for members of parliament and a symbolic centre of state power. It is open to the public, providing access for citizens and tourists to the political process.
