Finland has earned global attention for constructing the world’s largest dome igloo, a breathtaking structure made entirely from snow and ice in the Arctic city of Kemi. Known internationally for its snow architecture, Kemi has long pushed the limits of what can be built in extreme winter conditions, and this massive dome-shaped igloo stands as one of its most impressive achievements.
The giant dome igloo forms part of the famous SnowCastle of Kemi, an attraction that is rebuilt every winter using thousands of tons of snow and ice from the nearby Bothnian Bay. Designed in a traditional igloo-inspired dome shape but on an enormous scale, the structure can host hundreds of visitors at a time, making it the largest of its kind ever created.
Engineers and ice architects carefully calculate snow density, curvature, and internal support to ensure stability, even as temperatures fluctuate. Despite being made of frozen materials, the dome is strong enough to house restaurants, exhibition halls, chapels, and performance spaces, turning it into a fully functional winter building rather than just a sculpture.
Inside, visitors experience a surreal Arctic atmosphere, with intricately carved ice walls, glowing lights, and themed artwork that changes each year. The dome igloo has become a major tourist draw, attracting travelers from around the world who want to witness how ancient igloo concepts can be transformed into modern, record-breaking architecture.
Beyond tourism, the project highlights Finland’s expertise in cold-climate construction and sustainable winter design. The structure is completely seasonal—melting naturally in spring and returning to the sea—making it an environmentally friendly example of temporary architecture.
