Renovation of Turku Cathedral in the 2020s

An extensive renovation of Turku Cathedral is set to take place during this decade. The last major renovation occurred between 1976 and 1979, and many of the cathedral’s systems now require modernization to meet contemporary needs. Additionally, the project aims to improve accessibility and enhance the visitor experience while ensuring that the cathedral remains a functional and welcoming place of worship for modern-day Christian congregations.

While the renovations in the 1970s primarily focused on technical updates, the current project takes a broader approach, considering both functionality and historical preservation. One key goal is to repurpose underutilized backstage areas into new meeting spaces for the congregation. However, only minor modifications will be made to the main church hall.

The renovation plans are currently being drafted. Work is scheduled to begin in February 2026, with completion targeted for late 2028—just in time for the 800th anniversary of the city of Turku. The first phase will focus on updating the technical infrastructure of the church hall. Due to the scale of the renovations, weddings and other events will not be possible in Turku Cathedral during the renovation in 2026-2028.

During the upcoming renovation of the Cathedral, also the Turku Cathedral Museum will be reconstructed, but it will remain open throughout the summer of 2025. The museum will close 30th September 2025 for renovation.

Preparations for the Cathedral’s renovation are underway

The renovation of Turku Cathedral will proceed according to the project plan approved by the joint church council in October 2024. Before making its decision, the council sought input from the Turku Cathedral Parish, Åbo svenska församling, the disability council of the Parish Union, and the Finnish Heritage Agency. The project’s lead architect is Hanna Lyytinen from the architectural firm Arkkitehtitoimisto Hanna Lyytinen Oy.

Currently, the plans remain at a general level, identifying the spaces that will undergo the most significant changes and their potential new functions. More detailed planning will follow in the next phase. The comprehensive project plans will be developed between 2025 and 2026, partially overlapping with the renovation work itself.

Preparations for the Cathedral’s renovation have been underway for quite some time. Ideas, feedback, and suggestions have been gathered from parish members, the general public, partners, and stakeholders. Employees and elected representatives have taken part in various workshops to assess and analyze the needs of the project. The Finnish Heritage Agency has been actively involved in discussions, both regarding the overall vision and specific details. Numerous studies have been conducted, possibilities explored, and ideas evaluated—some of which have also been set aside.

The main altar will remain in the chancel but will be moved away from the wall to function as a people’s altar (versus populum). The steps leading up to the altar rail will be made more accessible. Additionally, a new movable altar table will be designed and placed in the choir area—the space in front of the chancel—when needed.

The finalised project plan focuses particularly on renovations to St. Ursula’s Chapel and the sacristy attic, which will be converted into small, multipurpose meeting rooms. To maximise space, intermediate levels will be added to St. Ursula’s Chapel, and an elevator will be installed to ensure accessibility for all, including visitors to the Cathedral Museum. On the chapel’s first floor, a dedicated space will be created for post-service coffee gatherings on Sundays. The museum will remain in its current location on the southern gallery but will be modernised to meet contemporary museum standards. Studies are also underway to explore expanding the space currently occupied by Domcafé.

One of the most noticeable external changes to the Cathedral will be the addition of an elevator shaft leading to the sacristy’s upper floor. According to the project plan, the shaft will be built next to the fire equipment storage building—the newest part of the Cathedral—constructed in the 18th century to store firefighting equipment. Located between the sacristy and Kankas Chapel, the new elevator will allow the upper floor of the sacristy to serve as a meeting and working space.

Accessibility will be improved both inside and outside the Cathedral through various measures, including the modernisation of lighting and sound systems. The goal is to make these features as adaptable as possible for future needs, ensuring that everyone can see, hear, and participate in church activities—or simply enjoy a meaningful visitor experience at the Cathedral.