Estonia - attractions

The territory of Estonia is rather modest and sometimes it seems surprising how it could accommodate so many beautiful sights and memorable places. Attractions in Estonia are very diverse and it is quite difficult to describe them all in one article. But there are some of the most famous places included in all tourist itineraries and excursions.

Tallinn, Estonia - attractions

The country is full of various architectural monuments, from them it is possible to note the following:

  1. First of all, tourists are invited to go to Tallinn Town Hall Square . Today it remains the center and heart of the city. At one time all the fairs were held on the square, and the traders put their tents, and today it is surrounded by a lot of old cozy buildings. On the spoils usually idle all the dates and hold concerts.
  2. Some of Tallinn's attractions in Estonia connect the Old and New parts of the city . These are two famous streets Short leg and Long leg. Both begin in one place. According to the story, one of the streets was allowed to walk commoners, and the second was intended for nobles.
  3. One of the main attractions of Estonia is Narva . The structure dates back to the 13th century, when Northern Estonia was conquered and a need arose to build it, which would be able to protect people during the uprising. The fortress occupies an area of ​​3.2 hectares, the highest point is the Pikk Hermann tower , located at a height of 51 m, it offers a stunning view. Today it is a historical museum, where typical interiors of that time and, of course, a lot of exhibits are stored: from flags to weapons.
  4. It is impossible not to note such a landmark as Vyshgorod or Upper Town of Tallinn . It rises on the hill of Toompea, here is one of the oldest and largest castles in the territory, bearing the same name. It was founded in the 13th and 14th centuries, at present the Estonian Parliament or the Riigikogu is located there. However, the castle is open to tourists who can visit it from 10:00 to 16:00.
  5. The city wall of Tallinn - is one of the symbols of the city and represents a majestic structure, erected in the 13th century. It has a height of about 20 m and was built along the perimeter of the city in order to protect against enemy invasions.
  6. House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads - was founded in the 14th century by the guild of foreign merchants. The brotherhood existed until the middle of the 20th century, then the house was transferred to municipal property, and richly decorated furniture was transferred to the local museum.
  7. The Dome Cathedral in Tallinn , dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, is considered one of the oldest temples, it was consecrated back in 1240. For all history of its existence the cathedral was rebuilt several times, but to this day many relics have been preserved.
  8. Tartu Dome Cathedral - rises on a hill, on the banks of the Emajõgi River. At one time it was consecrated in honor of Peter and Paul. Construction began in 1224, to this day the remains of the former masonry have been preserved. The building was built in the Gothic style, it is one of the largest churches in Eastern Europe.
  9. Town Hall Square Tartu - is located in the Old Town and has a trapezoidal shape. The buildings that are on it represent a single architectural ensemble, built in the style of classicism. The most notable buildings include the Art Museum, the Town Hall, the Barclay de Tolly House.
  10. If you consider the sights of Estonia in the photo, you can not fail to mention the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn - is a unique architectural building, remarkable for its black domes, which are visible from many places in the city. The temple was built in 1900 for the reason that the church that was in this place could not accommodate all believers.
  11. The church of Niguliste is a building that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city, namely its tall black spire. The temple was erected in the 13th century in honor of the patron saint of St. Nicholas. His main attraction is the painting "Dance of Death", which belongs to the work of the German artist Bernt Notke.
  12. St. John's Church in Tartu - built in the 14th century, belongs to one of the most valuable monuments in Eastern Europe, built in the Gothic style. Both inside and outside walls were made niches in which there were famous terracotta sculptures, some of them have survived to this day.

Natural sights of Estonia

Tourists who want to decide what to see in Estonia, you can recommend for sightseeing such natural attractions:

  1. One of the most mysterious places in the country is Lake Kaali . The fact is that this place is not just picturesque, the origin of the reservoir remains a mystery today. Some scientists claim that this is a trace from the fall of the meteorite.
  2. Among the most beautiful places in Estonia, Lahemaa National Park is always mentioned. This is a huge complex, consisting of ancient settlements, beautiful picturesque places of nature. Tourists are invited to visit the ancient estates of the landlords and pass one of the seven footpaths. For this trip it is necessary to allocate all the day.
  3. One of the interesting places in Estonia can rightly be called the island of Kihnu . The population of the island is only 600 people, who have preserved the traditions of their ancestors to the present day. If you are planning a Christmas holiday, be sure to consider the option with a trip to the island. Many tourists say that staying on the island is for a couple of days, then you can fully experience the local flavor.
  4. Toila-Oru Park is one of the most picturesque places in Tallinn . It is located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, tourists are encouraged to visit it in the summer and autumn, when it is particularly beautiful. In the 19th century, the park was owned by Russian merchant Grigory Eliseev. He built a magnificent palace, which was then used as the residence of the Estonian president. The sights of the park include the arbor "Swallow's Nest", a complex of wooden sculptures, fountains, the grotto "Silver Stream".
  5. The Tallinn Zoo is located within the city limits, but its peculiarity is that most of the territory is occupied by a forest. Attention visitors are numerous species of animals, the number of which exceeded 8 thousand. One of the activities of the zoo is the protection of endangered species of fauna. So, here there are more than 10 kittens of the Amur leopard, which is on the verge of extinction.
  6. Kadriorg Park - is not only a picturesque area, but also a unique Kadriorg Palace, built in the Baroque style. It was built by the order of Peter I for his wife Catherine. Tourists will not only have a walk in the park, but also visit the palace and view its luxurious surroundings.

Attractions in Estonia: history in castles

Almost all the main sights of Estonia are somehow connected with its history. Especially interesting can be an excursion around the country's castles:

  1. In the Northern part of Estonia Rakvere Castle is located. Currently, you can take a walk there yourself or use the services of a guide. The medieval atmosphere of the castle allows you to fully immerse yourself in history, and numerous workshops offer tourists to try themselves in different crafts. It is especially interesting to descend into the dungeon to the room of fear.
  2. In the city of Kuressaare is located the most beautiful Episcopal castle . He is one of the few that has survived to this day in its original form. This is one of the attractions of Estonia , the history of which is connected with legends and beliefs. Currently, within the walls of the castle are a gallery and an art museum, and sometimes it is a venue for concerts and various events.
  3. In the course of history, some of Estonia's sights have radically changed their appearance. For example, Kiltsi Castle was not originally intended for defense, but it is mentioned in some military operations. And now it is a parish school.