The Old Church is an Evangelical Lutheran church designed by Carl Ludvig Engel. The church was meant to be temporary when the Ulrika Eleonora church at the current Senate Square was condemned to make way for the construction of the city centre. The church was funded with the salt duty money granted by the Czar and was completed in 1826. Due to its temporary nature, the Old Church was built of wood, and no bells were acquired for it. Later, the bells were replaced with electric clockwork.

Nowadays, the Old Church serves the residents of central Helsinki and those who work in the city, as well as visitors. It is in active use for worship and concerts, and one of the most popular churches for weddings in Helsinki.