Have you noticed the unique copper cladding glinting in the sunlight? That is the Tavivaaran kappeli. It stands as a testament to local artistry and spiritual significance. Let’s discover its story.
Tavivaaran kappeli serves Rovaniemi as a central burial ground. The need for a new cemetery near the city was recognized long ago. Initial site explorations began in 1953. By 1969, the number of potential sites had increased. Tavivaara emerged as a suitable option. The congregation already owned 40 hectares of land there.
In April 1970, the church council decided to allocate land in Tavivaara for a cemetery. The Tavivaaran kappeli was finally completed in 2001. Architect Jorma Teppo designed it. Bishop Samuel Salmi consecrated the Tavivaaran kappeli in February 2002. The construction cost nearly four million euros.
The Tavivaaran kappeli features two blessing halls. The larger hall accommodates 100 people. The smaller hall is for 30 people. Master of Arts Minna Rimpiläinen designed the altar textiles. They are named ‘Living Stream’ and ‘Support Each Other’. The larger hall includes an organ loft and choir space.
Notice the Narkaus Kivalo bedrock used for the wall cladding. Also note the exterior areas. The outer walls are clad with copper sheets. The Tavivaaran kappeli has a turf roof covering 700 square meters.
Risto Immonen, an art blacksmith, crafted the wrought iron elements. These include the main gates, coat racks, candlesticks, crucifixes and flower stands. He also made the blessing equipment.
A service building is next to the Tavivaaran kappeli. It has a kitchen. It also has space for small memorial services.
In 2023, a crematorium was added. It is connected to the Tavivaaran kappeli. It was also designed by Jorma Teppo. The crematorium’s facade matches the Tavivaaran kappeli. It serves the entire Lapland region. The northernmost crematorium in Finland began operating here on February 8, 2023.
The Tavivaaran cemetery has several memorials. There is a memorial stone for Palosalmi forest workers. A memorial stone marks the children’s burial area. A candle stone commemorates those buried elsewhere.
The Tavivaaran kappeli and its surroundings offer a place for reflection. They honor the lives of those who came before us.