Tallinn has one of the best preserved medieval town centres today, because its 11th to 15th century structure has been left virtually undisturbed. The town is surrounded by very strong defensive systems, which has protected it from attack for centuries. The magnificent old town holds many buildings that have been preserved in their true medieval state, such as the Town Hall, the Town Wall, and St. Catherine’s Passage.
Tallinn’s Golden Age took place in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it had an important position of power on the Baltic Sea, and it controlled the trade routes across it. The town’s membership of the Hanseatic League ensured its fame far beyond the city walls.
Tallinn’s Town Hall Square has been the focus of the town social life for centuries; in fact long before the actual Town Hall was built, the square was already being used for markets, local festivities and, on a more sinister note, executions!. The current Town Hall got its present looks between 1402 and 1404, when a former building (probably dating from the 13th century) was refurbished. The three-nave cellar hall is open to visitors.
The Tallinn City Museum, located inside a medieval merchant’s house in the heart of the Old Town gives a lovely overview of the development of the city, using exhibitions, videos, and slide shows.
The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Tallinn’s largest one. It was built in 1900, and incorporates various historical architectural styles. The Orthodox church was built by Mikhail Preobrazhenski, from St. Petersburg, during the time when Tallinn was ruled by the Russian Tsar. The bell tower holds 11 bells, the largest of which weighs 15 tonnes. The tower’s interior is richly decorated with intricate mosaics, and is worth a visit.
Overlooking the town, high on the cliffs, is Toompea Castle which was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Tallinn used to have an earlier castle in suburban Iru, but this was abandoned in the 11th century for reasons unknown. The present location of the castle is a fine defensive position, 50 meters above sea level overlooking both the town and the sea. It has seen many conquerors over the centuries, and today the Estonian parliament sits here.
The Estonian Open Air museum presents an interesting and educational view on life in Estonia through the centuries. A huge selection of historical buildings gives an excellent overview of the various stages of Estonia’s development. Folk music and dancing takes place at regular intervals. The Museum is located on the outskirts of the city, making it an ideal opportunity for a great day out and a picnic.
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