Things to do in Tallin
The Estonian capital Tallinn is both modern and antiquated. Those looking to delve in to the city's past need only potter around the old town to get a sense of Tallinn's history. Elsewhere, however, you will find one of most modern cities in eastern Europe - many years ahead, technologically, than supposedly advanced capitals such as London or Paris, and not at all like the traditional picture of a former eastern-bloc city.
A visit to the old part of town is an astonishing step back in time to the 14th and 15th centuries and a good walk around the quarter is a must to pick up some of that mediaeval atmosphere. The wonderfully painted buildings are quite a sight and despite being heavily bombed by the Soviet forces towards the end of World War II, the area has retained much of its wonderful charm. In 1997 the area became a UNESCO World Cultural Site.
Many of the city's top sights can be found in Toompea, or Cathedral Hill part of town. Estonia's oldest church, the Toomkirik, was built here in the 13th century by Danish settlers although the current incarnation is a 15th and 17th century edifice. It offers wonderful views over the city and inside has an impressive array of carved tombs and a faux Greek temple marble sarcophagus belonging to Scot Admiral Samuel Greigh, who fought against the Turks for the Russians in the 18th century. Native Estonians hold the church in extremely high regard, as they believe that the remains of the country's first leader, Kalev, are buried here.
The fortress of Kiek-in-de-Kök also stands on Toompea. This 15th century construction was once the main defence of the city and its name means "Peep into the Kitchen" in Low German; a reference to the soldiers who once walked the ramparts, gazing down on the town below. Today it contains a museum explaining the history and development of the city, with the help of several maps, weapons and replica models.
Down in the lower town you will come across Kadriorg Park. This enormous wooded expanse is very popular with locals on the weekends. The place was crafted, along with the Kadriorg Palace, which is to be found in the centre of the park, for Peter the Great, the Russian tsar who conquered Estonia in the Great Northern War of the early 18th century.
Behind the palace you will find the cottage that Peter stayed in during visits to Tallinn, while the palace was being built. It is now home to a museum where you can have a look at the boots and clothes he made for himself as well as some period furnishings.
For those who would like to learn more about Estonian architecture, a visit to the Architecture & Arts Centre of Estonia is a must. It lies to the east of the old town in an old limestone warehouse and has a large collection of both permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a number of local art works.
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Things to do
