Helsinki's White Cathedral Becomes Outdoor Theater as "Via Crucis" Celebrates 30 Years
In front of Helsinki Cathedral in Finland, the "Via Crucis" (Way of the Cross), depicting the Passion of Christ, was performed, celebrating its 30th anniversary. It has become an annual Easter tradition, with thousands of spectators gathering in the square, which transforms into an outdoor theater.
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- 📰 Published: April 6, 2026 at 19:31
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During the Easter holiday in Helsinki, as night fell, lights illuminated the steps of the cathedral in Senate Square. Thousands of spectators braved the rain, and children squeezed into the front rows, looking up at everything unfolding in the square. This scene has been performed continuously in the city for 30 years.
Director Markku Arokanto, in an interview with CNA, said that being able to stand in this square itself is a special thing. He pointed out that the roots of this play can be traced back to medieval Europe, and "it is very precious that this tradition can take root in Helsinki."
Arokanto noted that many people choose to leave the city for cottage holidays during the festive season, yet crowds continue to gather in the square. "Even with the rain, people still came; this is a performance everyone wants to witness firsthand."
Actor Panu Haavisto highlighted that the square is surrounded by the main building of the University of Helsinki, government buildings, and the cathedral. "We are at the core of Helsinki, just like Jerusalem back then, where administrative and religious buildings stood side by side. This place is very suitable for presenting this story."
A CNA reporter observed many families with young children in the square. The children, held in their parents' arms or standing on the flagstones, intently watched the stage as the drama unfolded. Helsinki's iconic White Cathedral, with its magnificent lighting design, transformed into a thought-provoking theatrical backdrop.
The "Via Crucis" performance team is composed of theater and music professionals, amateur actors, and parish volunteers. It relies on a large number of volunteers each year to be staged in the square. Director Arokanto emphasized that this cross-professional and amateur group collaboration constitutes the core spirit of the play over the years.
This year, due to renovations of surrounding buildings, the original parade route was canceled, and the entire performance was held in Senate Square. Arokanto set the theme for this year's performance as "from light to dark, from dark to light." (Edited by: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150406
Director Markku Arokanto, in an interview with CNA, said that being able to stand in this square itself is a special thing. He pointed out that the roots of this play can be traced back to medieval Europe, and "it is very precious that this tradition can take root in Helsinki."
Arokanto noted that many people choose to leave the city for cottage holidays during the festive season, yet crowds continue to gather in the square. "Even with the rain, people still came; this is a performance everyone wants to witness firsthand."
Actor Panu Haavisto highlighted that the square is surrounded by the main building of the University of Helsinki, government buildings, and the cathedral. "We are at the core of Helsinki, just like Jerusalem back then, where administrative and religious buildings stood side by side. This place is very suitable for presenting this story."
A CNA reporter observed many families with young children in the square. The children, held in their parents' arms or standing on the flagstones, intently watched the stage as the drama unfolded. Helsinki's iconic White Cathedral, with its magnificent lighting design, transformed into a thought-provoking theatrical backdrop.
The "Via Crucis" performance team is composed of theater and music professionals, amateur actors, and parish volunteers. It relies on a large number of volunteers each year to be staged in the square. Director Arokanto emphasized that this cross-professional and amateur group collaboration constitutes the core spirit of the play over the years.
This year, due to renovations of surrounding buildings, the original parade route was canceled, and the entire performance was held in Senate Square. Arokanto set the theme for this year's performance as "from light to dark, from dark to light." (Edited by: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150406