- Address: Lossiplats 3, Haapsalu, 90502 Lääne maakond, Estonia;
- Working hours: every day from 9:00 to 20:00;
- Phone: +372 472 4346;
- Website: salm.ee;
- It was founded in the 13th century.
Haapsalu Castle in Estonia is another architectural monument that appeared on the Baltic lands thanks to the vanity of the medieval sacred clergy. In the 13th century, Albrecht von Buxgewenden, Riga archbishop, forms a new diocese - the Ezel-Wicks bishopric. In this regard, the question arose about the construction of another fortress, which would become the center of the new district. The castle of Haapsalu was erected for three centuries.
Haapsalu Castle - description
In the central part of the structure it was decided to arrange a cathedral. Later, the bishop's chambers were added to him. Particular attention was paid to the construction of protective structures. A powerful fortress wall around the castle was erected, deep moats were dug and high towers were built. It was possible to get inside by three gates equipped with lifting bridges.
The place for the location of the bishop's castle of Haapsalu was chosen very successfully. The fortress was on a small hill, and surrounded by swampy marshes, which greatly hampered the advance of the enemies to the gate.
On the eve of the Livonian War, the castle was further strengthened by earthworks, but this, unfortunately, did not help save him from a crushing artillery fire. In 1583, the fortress of Haapsalu was partially destroyed and was never used again for military defensive purposes.
In the following centuries, no one undertook the reconstruction of the former bishop's residence. Residents of nearby villages came here only in the surviving cathedral, dilapidated walls of the castle were dismantled for the construction of residential buildings in the district.
In 1991, the castle of Haapsalu was declared a historical property of Estonia, the ruins were taken under state protection, and after a while a large-scale reconstruction of the medieval structure began.
Today, the former bishop's castle in Haapsalu is one of the most popular tourist objects in Estonia. Thousands of tourists come here every year, many interesting events take place on the territory of the complex: exhibitions, festivals, concerts and fairs.
Legend of the White Lady
The most famous Estonian legend about the White Lady is connected with Haapsalu Castle. As you know, all cones were strictly forbidden to violate the virtuous and chaste way of life. But one day a young monk, who lived in the castle of the Ezel-Vic bishopric, fell in love with a local girl. She answered him in kind, but they could not meet in public. Lovers went to the trick - the girl disguised as a guy and came to the castle to ask for a church choir. Young singers with a beautiful voice gladly took it, young people were now able to see more often in the secluded corners of the fortress. But after some time they were exposed, the angry bishop ordered to cast the impious monk into prison, and the girl walled up. For a long time, the walls of the Haapsalu castle shook with her cries and pleading for help, until the martyr died of hunger.
Since then, during each August full moon on the wall of the chapel appears silhouette of the White Lady - the same girl who died in the name of great love. Every August on the territory of the castle in Haapsalu, the famous White Music Festival in Estonia and theatrical performances dedicated to medieval local legends are held.
Information for tourists
Going to the bishop's castle of Haapsalu, be prepared for the fact that the clock sightseeing tour you will not get along, especially if traveling with children.
On the territory of the former fortress there is a large museum, located in the tower of Toom-Niguliste. The expositions present exhibits from different eras related to the construction and history of the castle.
Be sure to go up to the bell tower. There is a spacious observation deck, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also go up to the part of the castle wall that is open to tourists. From there you can see a stunning panorama of the city with Tagalaht Bay.
In the courtyard there are many fascinating locations. Here you can visit various workshops where folk craftsmen create real works of art right before your eyes. If desired, you can even take part in the creative process and buy author's souvenirs for memory. For children the original playground in medieval style is equipped. Adults can practice in archery and take part in other themed entertainments.
Many interesting things are hidden in themselves and the walls of the castle of Haapsalu. For example, a medieval infirmary that protects a doctor's dummy mask with a beak, or an alchemical laboratory with different drugs and strange vessels.
From May to August, the castle is open to tourists every day from 10:00 to 18:00. Cost of entrance tickets:
- adult - € 5;
- child / pension / student - € 3;
- family- € 12.
At other times, the opening hours of the complex are reduced. It opens at 11:00 and closes at 16:00. From January to March, prices for visiting the bishop's castle of Haapsalu are reduced:
- adult - € 3;
- child / pension / student - € 2;
- family- € 7.
From October to April, you can enter the castle's territory only three times a week, from Friday to Sunday.
How to get there?
Once in Haapsalu , you do not have to look long for its main attraction. The clock tower of Haapsalu Castle is visible from almost every corner of this small town. In addition, on the streets you can often find signs pointing the direction to the castle complex.
You can get to the gate from the side of the Old Town or from the Castle Square. There is another entrance on Vaba Street, located near the free car parking.