Noora Aaltonen

I grew up in Katajanokka within sight of the Uspenski Cathedral's onion domes, which most visitors are surprised to learn is the largest Orthodox cathedral in western Europe. On camera I stand back far enough to fit all thirteen domes into frame and explain the symbolism behind that specific number before moving in on the brickwork itself. I studied Russian and Finnish history together, which helps explain a building that sits between two traditions rather than fully inside either. I speak carefully about the history, since it is more layered than a single label suggests.