Carl Ludvig Engel or Johann Carl Ludwig Engel (3 July 1778 – 14 May 1840) was a German architect and the first internationally renowned architect to work in Finland. Under his direction, Helsinki was transformed in the early 19th century into a worthy capital for the Grand Duchy of Finland, with a monumental neoclassical centre around Senate Square. His works include Helsinki Cathedral, the Senate building, the Helsinki City Hall, and the main building and library of the University of Helsinki. From 1824 until his death he served as head of the Intendant's Office, responsible for public buildings throughout Finland.
Biography
Early career: Berlin and Tallinn
Carl Ludvig Engel was born on 3 July 1778 in Charlottenburg, Berlin, into a family of master masons. a position he held following the resignation of its first head, the Italian-born architect Carlo Bassi, and which he retained until his death.