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| Tallinn city |
Tallinn: Discovering the Medieval Charm and Modern Wonders of Estonia's Capital City
Tallinn is a stunning city located on the northern coast of Estonia and is the country's capital. The city boasts of a rich history and culture that has been preserved for centuries. The city is a fascinating blend of the old and the new, with modern buildings standing side by side with medieval structures. In this article, we will explore everything about Tallinn city in detail.
History of Tallinn City
The history of Tallinn city can be traced back to the 12th century when it was founded by the Danish King Valdemar II. The city was initially called Reval and served as an important trading center in the region. Over the centuries, Tallinn has been ruled by different powers, including the Germans, Swedes, Russians, and finally, the Estonians, who gained their independence in 1918.During World War II, Tallinn was occupied by the Soviet Union and remained under Soviet rule until Estonia regained its independence in 1991. Since then, Tallinn has undergone significant changes and has transformed into a modern European city while still retaining its historical charm.
Old Town
Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The Old Town is surrounded by a wall that was built in the 13th century and has several gates and towers that have been preserved to this day. The walls of the city are a testament to the city's history and have seen many battles and sieges over the centuries.
The Old Town is separated into two sections – the upper town and the lower town. The upper town is located on a hill and is home to the Toompea Castle, which now houses the Estonian parliament. The lower town, on the other hand, is located at the foot of the hill and is where most of the city's historical buildings, restaurants, and shops are located.
Some of the must-see sights in the Old Town include the Town Hall Square, which is the heart of the city and has been the site of many historical events over the centuries. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is home to several restaurants and cafes. The St. Olaf's Church, which was once the tallest building in the world, is also located in the Old Town and is a popular tourist attraction.
Kadriorg Park and Palace
Kadriorg Park is a stunning park located in the eastern part of Tallinn and is home to several historical buildings and monuments. The park was established in the early 18th century by the Russian czar, Peter the Great, and was named after his wife, Catherine I.
The park covers an area of 70 hectares and is home to several walking trails, ponds, and gardens. The park is also home to several museums, including the Kumu Art Museum, which houses a vast collection of Estonian art.
The Kadriorg Palace is located in the center of the park and was built in the early 18th century as a summer residence for Peter the Great. The palace is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and has several stunning rooms that have been preserved over the centuries.
The palace now houses the Estonian Art Museum, which has a vast collection of European and Estonian art. The museum also has a beautiful cafe where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the beautiful surroundings.
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Tallinn's Cuisine
Tallinn's cuisine is a blend of traditional Estonian dishes and modern European cuisine. The city is home to several restaurants and cafes that serve delicious food, and visitors can find everything from street food to fine dining.
Some of the must-try Estonian dishes include black bread, which is a staple in Estonian cuisine and is served with butter and cheese. Another popular dish is the blood sausage, also known as verivorst, which is made from pork blood, barley, and various spices. This dish is usually served with lingonberry jam and sauerkraut.
Another dish that visitors must try is the traditional Estonian stew, called hernetatrapada, which is made with pork, potatoes, and peas. This hearty dish is perfect for cold winter days and is often served with rye bread.
For those with a sweet tooth, Tallinn offers a wide range of desserts, including kama, which is a traditional Estonian dessert made from roasted barley, rye, wheat, and peas. The mixture is then mixed with milk or yogurt and topped with fresh berries.
The city is also famous for its marzipan, which is a sweet almond paste that is molded into various shapes and sizes. Visitors can learn how to make marzipan at the Marzipan Museum, located in the heart of the Old Town.
Nightlife in Tallinn
Tallinn's nightlife scene is vibrant and offers something for everyone. The city has several bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning, making it a perfect destination for party-goers.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Tallinn is the Old Town, which is home to several bars and pubs that offer live music and DJ sets. The area is also famous for its rooftop bars, which offer stunning views of the city at night.
For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, Tallinn has several jazz clubs and live music venues that offer a more laid-back vibe. The city also has several theaters and cinemas that screen both Estonian and international films.
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Travel Access to Tallinn City
Tallinn is easily accessible from many parts of the world. The city's international airport, Tallinn Airport, is located just 4 km from the city center and offers flights to over 30 destinations in Europe and beyond. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Finnair, Lufthansa, and Ryanair.
- For those traveling by train, Tallinn is connected to Moscow and St. Petersburg via the Baltiysky railway station. There are also daily trains to and from Riga, Latvia.
- Tallinn is also well connected by road, with several major highways leading into the city. The E20 highway connects Tallinn to Helsinki, Finland, via a ferry that takes approximately two hours.
- Another popular way to reach Tallinn is by ferry. The city's port is located just a short distance from the Old Town and offers regular ferry services to Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg.
Once in Tallinn, getting around the city is easy thanks to the city's efficient public transport system. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses that operate throughout the city. There is also a modern light rail system, called the Tallinn tram, that connects the city center with the port and the airport.
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| Tallinn city Streets |
For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, Tallinn's compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to navigate on foot. The city's Old Town is especially well-suited for walking, with its winding cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
In summary, Tallinn is easily accessible by air, rail, road, and sea. Once in the city, visitors can take advantage of the city's efficient public transport system or explore the city on foot.
Tourist attractions
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. There are many tourist attractions in Tallinn that visitors should not miss. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Tallinn:
- Tallinn Old Town: The Old Town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Visitors can wander the winding cobblestone streets and explore the many historic buildings, churches, and town squares.
- Toompea Castle: Toompea Castle is a historic castle that sits on a hill overlooking the Old Town of Tallinn. The castle was originally built in the 13th century and has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries. Today, it is the seat of the Estonian Parliament.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a Russian Orthodox cathedral located in the heart of the Old Town. The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is known for its striking onion domes and colorful mosaics.
- Kadriorg Palace: Kadriorg Palace is a beautiful baroque palace that was built by Peter the Great in the 18th century. Today, it houses the Estonian Art Museum and is surrounded by a beautiful park with fountains and sculptures.
- St. Olaf's Church: St. Olaf's Church is a historic church located in the Old Town. The church was originally built in the 12th century and was the tallest building in the world for several years in the 16th century. Visitors can climb to the top of the church tower for panoramic views of the city.
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| Tallinn city |
- Tallinn Town Hall: The Tallinn Town Hall is a historic building that dates back to the 14th century. It is located in the heart of the Old Town and is known for its impressive Gothic architecture and colorful murals.
- Kumu Art Museum: The Kumu Art Museum is the largest art museum in Estonia and is located in a modern building on the outskirts of the city. The museum features a wide range of Estonian and international art, from classical to contemporary.
- Tallinn Zoo: The Tallinn Zoo is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers. The zoo is home to over 10,000 animals from 500 different species, including tigers, bears, and elephants.
- Kadriorg Park: Kadriorg Park is a beautiful park that is located just a short distance from the city center. The park features several historic buildings, including the Kadriorg Palace, as well as fountains, sculptures, and walking paths.
- Estonian Open Air Museum: The Estonian Open Air Museum is an outdoor museum that showcases traditional Estonian life and culture. Visitors can explore a collection of historic buildings, including farmhouses, windmills, and churches, and learn about traditional crafts and customs.
In summary, Tallinn offers a wide range of tourist attractions that cater to all interests, from history and culture to art and nature. Visitors to Tallinn should not miss the Old Town, Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the many other historic buildings and museums that make the city a unique and fascinating destination.
Tallinn is a fascinating city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, Tallinn has it all. The city's Old Town is a must-see attraction and is a perfect example of a well-preserved medieval city. The city's parks, museums, and restaurants are also worth a visit and offer a glimpse into Estonian culture and cuisine. Tallinn's nightlife scene is vibrant and offers something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for party-goers. Overall, Tallinn is a hidden gem in Europe and is definitely worth a visit.
