What is the capital of Estonia. Map of Estonia in Russian. Unofficial capitals of Estonia
Republic of Estonia.
The name of the country comes from the ethnonym of the people - Estonians.
Capital of Estonia. Tallinn.
Estonia Square. 45227 km2.
Population of Estonia. 1.311 million people (
Estonian GDP. $26.49 billion (
Location of Estonia. The Republic of Estonia is a state in the north-west of East. In the north it is washed, in the west - by the sea. In the east, the country borders on Russia, including along, in the south - with. Estonia owns more than 1500 islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.
Administrative divisions of Estonia. Estonia is divided into 15 maakunds (counties) and 6 cities of central subordination.
Estonian form of government. Parliamentary republic.
Head of State of Estonia. The President is elected by Parliament for a term of 5 years.
Higher Legislature Estonia. Seimas, whose term of office is 5 years.
Supreme executive body of Estonia. Government.
Major cities in Estonia. Tartu, Narva.
State language of Estonia. Estonian.
Religion in Estonia. 70% - Lutherans, 20% - Orthodox.
Ethnic composition of Estonia. 61.5% - , 30.3% - Russians, 3.2% - , 1.8% - , 1.1% - Finns.
The capital of Estonia - the city of Tallinn - is the largest settlement in the republic. Before the declaration of independence and the establishment of statehood, it was called Revel and was considered the county center of the Estonian province of the Russian Empire. The current name was given to the city in 1919, at the same time, by decree of the Estonian government, it became the official capital of the republic. As of the beginning of 2016, the number of officially registered residents of Tallinn exceeded 439,000, which is almost a third of the country's population.
The capital of Estonia as a business and tourist center
Tallinn is the main business and tourist center of the Republic of Estonia. Here, as well as in the vicinity, the largest enterprises of the country are concentrated. Yes, and acquaintance with Estonia for many tourists begins with a visit to its capital. The most famous are the Kadriorg park, divided into two parts, founded by the Russian Tsar Peter I, as well as interactive museums– Lennusadam (seaplane harbor) and KUMU.
The capital of Estonia is also a center of culture and recreation. It is here that concerts of Russian and Western stars regularly take place, an eventful night life, mass sports events and festivals are held. Once every five years, a large-scale song and dance festival is held on the Song and Dance Field, which attracts singers and dancers from all over Estonia.
Unlike others European capitals, Tallinn cannot boast large sizes. However, perhaps this is precisely its advantage. The distances here are short, and thanks to excellent developed system public transport from the city center to any area can be reached without a transfer in no more than half an hour. By the way, buses, trolleybuses and trams are free for citizens.
Capital of Estonia – challenge title
A tradition has been established in the Republic of Estonia, according to which, several times a year, Tallinn symbolically transfers the powers of the main city to others. settlements. This allows not only to diversify local life, but also to draw the attention of tourists to other cities in Estonia. The transfer of the title occurs with the onset of the next season according to the astronomical calendar.
The title of the spring capital is annually assigned to the city of Türi. He is awarded this honor for the abundance of flowering gardens, the aroma of which creates an indescribable atmosphere. In the second half of July, the proud title of the capital passes to the main Estonian resort - the city. Until autumn, it is officially considered the summer capital of Estonia.
At the end of September, the baton takes over border town. Since the late 90s, it has been called the autumn capital of the republic. The last title of the main city is trying on ski resort Otepää, which until mid-March is considered the winter capital of Estonia.
Unofficial capitals of Estonia
In addition to the listed "seasonal capitals" in Estonia, there are two more cities that have been given the symbolic title of the main cities of the republic. So, for example, the city, which is the center of Estonian students, is often called the university or student capital of the country. As you know, the most prestigious university in the republic is located here.
The title of the island's capital is borne by the city. It is located on the island of Saaremaa and is the largest located in the non-mainland part of the country. All of these cities deserve the attention of tourists, and their residents are always glad to see guests and are ready to give them a warm welcome.
Estonia is a country located in the northwest of Eastern Europe on the northeast coast of the Baltic Sea. Official name state sounds like the Republic of Estonia. The territory of Estonia is washed by the Gulf of Riga and the Gulf of Finland. The capital of the republic is the city of Tallinn.
Republic of Estonia – just the facts
The Republic of Estonia was proclaimed on February 24, 1918. Prior to that, from the XIII century until 1583, its territory belonged to the Livonian Order, from 1583 it passed to Sweden, and from 1710 to 1918 it was part of the Russian Empire. The first Republic of Estonia existed from 1918 to 1940. In 1940, it became part of the USSR, of which it was a full-fledged socialist republic until August 20, 1991. This date is considered the Day of the Restoration of Independence.
During the Second World War from 1941 to 1944 Estonia was occupied by Nazi Germany. The liberation of the republic took place in several stages, the troops of the invaders were completely expelled from here in the fall of 1944. After that, Estonia was again included in the USSR. According to today's official interpretation, it is customary to refer to subsequent years in the press and state speeches as occupation.
In 1921 Estonia became a member of the League of Nations. After the restoration of independence in 1991, the state became a member of the UN. Since 2004, according to the results of a nationwide referendum (in which only citizens were allowed to participate among the indigenous people), the Republic of Estonia became part of European Union. Then she joined the North Atlantic military alliance NATO. Since January 2007, Estonia has been part of the Schengen area.
Phone code of the country Estonia: +372.
State symbols of Estonia
The main symbols of the country of Estonia are the national flag, coat of arms and anthem. Their use is regulated by law. The symbols of the Republic of Estonia appeared long before the establishment of statehood.
Country Estonia - administrative unit
The Republic of Estonia is considered one of the smallest states in the world. The territory of Estonia is 45,227 square kilometers. According to the Department of Statistics at the beginning of 2015, the population of the republic was 1,312,252 people. The territory of Estonia is divided into counties, which in turn consist of townships.
The largest cities in Estonia are Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu and Narva. Important tourist centers also include small resorts where medical tourism is developed. A good tradition has developed in the republic of assigning the symbolic title of the capital to different cities: the spring capital is the city of Türi, the summer capital is Pärnu, the autumn capital is Narva and the winter capital is Otepää.
Countries bordering Estonia
Estonia shares a land border with Russian Federation in the east and with the Republic of Latvia in the south. To cross the Estonian-Russian border, you need to obtain a visa (holders of the so-called "gray" passports, that is, stateless persons, can cross the border of states freely). Visas are not required to cross the Latvian-Estonian border, border and passport control is not carried out here, since both states belong to the Schengen zone.
Estonia's closest neighbors also include Finland and Sweden. The countries are separated by the Baltic Sea, and there is constant shipping between their capitals. The distance from Tallinn to Helsinki is about 80 kilometers. Estonia is connected with its neighbors by bus, sea and air links. Until May 2015, it was also possible to get to the capital of the republic from Russia by train.
Historically, it is believed that the long dark winters have contributed to the fact that the Estonians have formed as a nation, sparing on words. But at the same time, it was precisely this inner concentration of the Estonians that contributed to their long, calm reflections and flights of fantasy.
Taciturn Estonians love to sing in a choir, and it is choral music that has become a kind of calling card Estonia.
The Republic of Estonia borders on Russia and Latvia, and its maritime border with Finland takes place in Gulf of Finland. It is also washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga.
State symbols of Estonia
Flag- the official state symbol of the Republic of Estonia in 1918-1940. and again since 1990. It is a rectangular panel, consisting of three horizontal equal stripes: the top one is blue, the middle one is black and the bottom one is white. The standard flag size is 105 x 165 cm.
Coat of arms- exists in two forms: large and small state emblem. On big the state emblem in the golden field of the shield are three azure leopards (a marching lion looking right). The shield is bordered by a wreath of two crossed golden oak branches crossing at the bottom of the shield. Small the coat of arms is represented only by a shield.
The motif of the Estonian state emblem dates back to the 13th century, when the Danish king Valdemar II granted the city of Tallinn a coat of arms with three lions, similar to the coat of arms of the Danish kingdom. The same motif was later transferred to the emblem of the Estland province, approved by Empress Catherine II on October 4, 1788.
Brief description of modern Estonia
Political system- an independent democratic parliamentary republic.
head of state- President elected for 5 years.
Head of the government- Prime Minister.
Capital- Tallinn.
Largest cities- Tallinn, Tartu, Narva, Pärnu, Kohtla-Jarve.
Administrative division- 15 counties (maakonds), headed by county elders. 33 settlements have the status of cities.
Economy- The share of the service sector in Estonian GDP is 69%, industry - 29%, agriculture - 3%. The main industries are the fuel and energy complex, the chemical industry, mechanical engineering, the textile industry, the pulp and paper and woodworking industries. main industry Agriculture is animal husbandry of the meat and dairy direction and pig breeding (especially bacon). Crop production is mainly engaged in the production of feed for livestock, as well as the cultivation of industrial crops. Developed fishing.
Territory- 45,226 km².
Population– 1,286,540 people Estonians make up 68.7% of the population, Russians - 24.8%, Ukrainians - 1.7%, Belarusians - 1%, Finns - 0.6%.
Official language- Estonian. The Russian language is also widely spoken.
Currency- Euro.
traditional religion- Lutheranism.
Education- divided into basic, vocational and additional education. The educational system is based on a four-level system, which includes pre-school, primary, secondary and higher education. There is a wide network of schools and educational institutes. The Estonian educational system consists of state, municipal, public and private educational institutions.
Higher academic education in Estonia is divided into three levels: undergraduate, graduate and doctoral studies.
Estonian culture
Presumably, the culture of modern Estonians was somewhat influenced by ancient Russian culture. This is evidenced by ancient borrowings in the Estonian language from Russian, such as raamat book ⁄from “gramota”⁄ and leib ⁄bread⁄. One of the first mentions in The Tale of Bygone Years about the activities of Russian princes on the territory of modern Estonia is the campaign of Grand Duke Yaroslav Vladimirovich in 1030 against the Chud (as Estonia was called in ancient times) and the foundation of a city called Yuriev (now Tartu).
Estonians were also influenced to a considerable extent by German culture, since Livonia in 13th century. was captured by the Crusaders.
IN 1523. the Reformation movement reached Estonia (a mass religious and socio-political movement in Western and Central EuropeXVI- start XVII centuries., aimed at reforming Catholic Christianity in accordance with the Bible). Lutheranism, which attached great importance to public education, laid the foundation for Estonian literacy and the peasant school. IN 1739. first complete translation released bible into Estonian, translator Anton Thor Helle. Of great importance for the cultural development of Estonia was the restoration in 1802 of the Imperial Yuriev University in Derpt(now Tartu). The university became a conductor of Western European ideas. Such well-known scientists as astronomer Friedrich Georg Wilhelm von Struve, biologist Carl Ernst von Baer, surgeon Nikolai Pirogov studied and worked in Dorpat. The university became the cradle of the Estonian national awakening, especially after the abolition of serfdom.
One of the most famous cultural figures of this time was Johann Voldemar Jannsen. He began publishing a newspaper in Estonian, advocated the bourgeois development of Estonia, and promoted the purchase of farmsteads for ownership or their lease. He wrote the lyrics to the Estonian anthem Mu isamaa, mu õnn ja rõõm (Fatherland, my happiness and my joy).
Estonian Song Festival
A nationwide and national song festival in which various choirs and brass bands take part. The festival is held every five years on the territory of the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. The organization of the holiday is carried out by a unit specially established for this purpose under the Ministry of Culture of Estonia. It is a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The first song festival took place in 1869. in Tartu. In memory of this, a monument was erected in Tartu.
The first seven holidays were held during the time when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, and until the 6th Song Festival they were held on various significant dates for the empire. The festival was organized by various Estonian dance and choir societies. The first five holidays were held in Tartu, then all holidays began to be held in Tallinn.
Johann Voldemar Jannsen was the initiator of Estonian song festivals.
Estonian culture of the 20th century
Literature
Artworks Eduard Vilde laid the foundations of the genre of the novel and critical realism.
Post-war transformations in society are depicted in the stories Hans Leberecht, Rudolf Sirge, Ernie Krusten, essay-journalistic prose Juhana Smuula, Egon Ranneth and etc.
A certain trace in modern Estonian literature was left by Jene Mihkelson, Nikolai Baturin, Madis Kyiv, Maimu Berg, Hulo Matthäus. From the youngest generation stands out Tõnu Õnnepalu, Erwin Õunapuu, Peeter Sauter, Tarmo Teder, Andrus Kivirähk, Kaur Kender, Sass Henno.
Architecture and painting
At the beginning of the XX century. Art Nouveau became popular in Estonian architecture. An example of this style is the building of the Estonia Theater in Tallinn (1865), the building of the Institute of Zoology and Geology of the University of Tartu, etc.
Famous painters were Ants Laikmaa, Nikolai Triik, Konrad Mägi, Kristjan Raud.
Music
In the music of the XX century. There were two main creative schools: Artur Kappa in Tallinn and Heino Ellera in Tartu. During the period of 1940-50s. there was an intensive development of choral music. Gustav Ernesaks And Eugen Kapp created choral songs and operas on national-historical themes. In the 1950s, the singer gained popularity.
G. Ots performed parts of operettas and operas, worked in different genres with great success. Particularly popular was his role Mister X in the film "Mr. X" (dir. Yuli Khmelnitsky) - a film adaptation of Kalman's operetta "Princess of the Circus". Ots showed his hero Etienne Verdier as a person of impeccable honor, dignity, courage, an aristocrat of the spirit, a man of fine and romantic spiritual organization. Ots's personal modesty, nobility, elegance and grace were so sincere that not a single negative review of him appeared either during his life or after his death.
The most famous contemporary Estonian composer is Arvo Pärt, who emigrated to Germany in 1980, the discoverer of the "handbell style".
Recognized as a world class conductor Eri Klas. World renowned conductor Neeme Jarvi, actively promoting Estonian music abroad, emigrated to the USA in 1980.
pop culture
In Estonia, jazz began to revive and rock music developed. The orchestra was successful Modern Fox who performed dance hits from the 1930s-1950s; in the field of Estonian pop music of the 1980s, the most popular performers themselves were Anne Veski, Mariu Länik, Ivo Linna, Gunnar Graps; rock groups "Ruya", "Rock Hotel", "Orange", "Vitamin", "Radar".
Modern popular artists: Maarja-Liis Ilus (Maarja), Tanel Padar, Ines, Chalice; groups A-rühm, Genialistid, Dagö, J.M.K.E., Kosmikud, Metsatöll, Sun, Smilers, Terminaator, Ultima Thule, Urban Symphony, Vanilla Ninja, Vennaskond.
"Orange"
IN 1955 Estonian television was created.
Contemporary Estonian cinema
In the 90s, the main themes of films were the understanding of history, the categories of freedom, the connection between power and the individual. Along with the aggravated social themes, there were tendencies to complicate the language and conventions: “On Rahu Street” (Roman Baskin, 1991), “In Awakening” (Yuri Sillart, 1989), “Only Crazy” (Arvo Iho, 1990). In the entertainment genre, the film "Fire Water" (Hardy Volmer, 1994) was created. Revealing the pain point of the era, the film "Georgica" (Sulev Keedus) was a success at many festivals. Spectator records were broken by the historical epic "Names on a marble board" directed by Elmo Nykanena based on the novel of the same name Albert Kivikas. The first Estonian film screened at the Cannes Film Festival was the 2007 drama Magnus; in the same year, the film "Class" received a number of international prizes.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Estonia
Tallinn Historic Center (Old Town)
The Old Town of Tallinn is conditionally divided into Lower And upper town (Vyshgoro e). IN Upper city, located on the Toompea hill, was originally inhabited by the nobility, while merchants, artisans and other, less prosperous segments of the population settled in the Lower City. Vyshgorod was separated from the Lower City by a fortress wall, most of which has also been excellently preserved to this day. The fortress walls of the city are known from 1248., but the oldest surviving walls and towers belong to 14th century. There are 39 towers in total (preserved and not preserved), each of them has its own name and its own history. Let's talk about just a few of them.
Kuldjala Tower (XIV century)
The tower is five-storeyed, has a horseshoe shape, the inner part facing the city. The upper floors had defensive functions, while the lower ones were used as storage facilities.
The tower is well preserved and is currently used by the youth organization Kodulinn for exhibitions and lectures.
Köismäe Tower ("Rope Mountain Tower") (XIV century)
The horseshoe-shaped tower is located in the western part of the fortress wall. Was built in 1360 g. and has been well preserved to this day. Since November 2003, performances and exhibitions have been held in the tower.
The tower got its name from a nearby rope weaving workshop.
Fat Margarita (XVI century)
The gun turret with 155 loopholes was built at the beginning XVI century. in front of the Great Sea Gate. It got its name for its impressive size: 25 m in diameter and 20 m in height. The tower received its current name in 1842, and before that it was simply called the New Tower.
From 1830 the tower was used as a prison. The extension was made in 1884-1885. In March 1917 the tower was burned down. In 1930, the Museum of History was set up in the empty tower. Currently, the tower has been restored, restored, it houses Maritime Museum Estonia.
Burden Tower
Four-story horseshoe-shaped tower. The thickness of the outer wall is more than 2 m, the inner wall is 1 m thick. On the third floor there was a fireplace for guards of the city guard; at the very top there is an open area for patrol or shelling with narrow loopholes in the walls and loopholes.
The second floor can be reached from the city wall by stairs. Before 17th century there was a prison: an unlit room with small windows for air, in the walls of which iron rings were embedded. At the beginning of the twentieth century. the tower was used by the city as a powder store, so double locks were installed on the doors.
upper town
The first wooden fortification on the Toompea hill was presumably built in 11th century IN 1219 the settlement of Lindanise was captured by the Danish crusaders under the leadership of Valdemar II, after which the city received the name Revel, and Vyshgorod became the residence of foreign rulers. Toompea is divided into Big Settlement, Small Settlement and adjacent territories. IN 1229. The construction of the first stone castle Toompea in the western part of the Small Settlement was completed. 4 towers were built at its corners, including "Long German".
After the capture of Reval by the Russians during the Northern War, the castle was rebuilt. Instead of the eastern wall, by order of Catherine the Great, a baroque palace was built, a moat was filled in, one of the towers was destroyed. At present, the Estonian parliament, the Riigikogu, has settled in Toompea Castle.
Vyshgorod is home to one of the oldest churches in Estonia - the Dome Cathedral, built in the 13th century. The cathedral acquired its current appearance after numerous reconstructions. Many famous people were buried in the cathedral itself, such as Pontus Delagardie And Ivan Kruzershtern.
The Dome Cathedral
Lutheran Cathedral, located in the Old Town of Tallinn. Dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary. It is one of the oldest temples in Tallinn, but has undergone many reconstructions. Previously, this place was wooden church1219
The tower of the cathedral belongs to the Baroque era, and its annexed chapels belong to later ones. architectural styles. Inside the temple there are burials of the 13th-18th centuries, as well as various noble coats of arms and epitaphs dedicated to famous people of that time and related to the 12th-20th centuries.
lower town
The center of the Lower City is Town Hall Square, which is surrounded by built in 13th century. city hall in the Gothic style and other buildings. One of the symbols of Tallinn, weather vane "Old Thomas", decorates the spire of the town hall with 1530
According to legend, every spring in medieval Tallinn in front of the Great Sea Gate in the "Parrot Garden" a celebration was held. The best shooters of the city competed on it in shooting from crossbows and bows. Whoever knocked down a colored wooden figurine of a parrot sitting on the top of a high pole became the king of shooters. Once at a tournament, when they had just lined up and pulled the bowstring, the parrot suddenly suddenly fell down, pierced by someone's arrow. The unknown shooter turned out to be an ordinary young man from Tallinn, a poor man named Toomas. The prankster was scolded and forced to put the target back in its original place. The news spread all over Tallinn, and Toomas' mother prepared for the worst... But the young man was not punished, but offered to become a city guard, which at that time was a great honor for the poor.
Subsequently, Toomas repeatedly showed heroism in the battles of the Livonian War and fully justified the trust placed in him. And in old age he let go of his luxurious mustache and became surprisingly similar to the brave warrior who towered on the tower of the Town Hall. Since then, the weather vane on the Town Hall has been called "Old Toomas".
Opposite the town hall is Town Hall Pharmacy. The first mention of it dates from 1422, it is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, operating in the same building since the beginning of the 15th century. It is also the oldest commercial institution and the oldest medical institution in Tallinn.
Arc Struve
The Struve geodetic arc was measured by Struve and employees of the Derpt (Tartu) and Pulkovo observatories (of which Struve was the director) for 40 years, from 1816 to 1855, over 2820 km from Fuglenes, near the North Cape in Norway to the village of Staraya Nekrasovka Odessa region near the Danube, which formed a meridian arc with an amplitude of 25° 20′08″.
Currently, arc points can be found in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia (on the island of Gogland), Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine.
Other sights of Estonia
Lahemaa National Park
Founded in 1971. (this is the first national park in the USSR) to protect the unique landscapes of the coast, about 50 km from Tallinn. The area of the park is 72.5 thousand hectares (47.4 thousand hectares of land and 25.1 thousand hectares of the sea). Many picturesque bays, karst landscapes, areas of old agricultural development. Here is the Nõmmeveske waterfall and other interesting objects. Lahemaa is a center of mass tourism and recreation.
Kumu Museum
Art Museum in Tallinn. It is the largest in the Baltic region and one of the largest museums in Northern Europe. This is one of the four branches of the Estonian Art Museum.
Kumu has permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. The main collection covers Estonian art from the 18th century, includes works from the Soviet period (1941-1991), shows both socialist realism and official art. Temporary exhibitions present foreign and Estonian contemporary art.
Tallinn Zoo
Opened in 1939. The zoo's collection includes about 7753 individuals of 595 species/subspecies.
Pukhtitsky monastery
Orthodox convent of the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate.
Founded in 1891. The monastery has never been closed. Since the 1990s, it has had stauropegial status (a status that makes the monastery, monastery, etc. independent of the local diocesan authorities and directly subordinate to the patriarch or synod). Located in the village of Kuremäe (Ida-Viru County, Estonia). Pühtitsa means "holy place" in Estonian.
Soomaa
National park in Estonia, located in the border western part of Viljandi County. It was established in 1993 to protect wetlands, grasslands and forests. The name of the park in translation from Estonian means "country of swamps".
Estonian Open Air Museum
This is a life-size reconstruction of a rural/fishing village. 18th century., which has a church, an inn, a school, several mills, a fire station, twelve yards and sheds for nets. The museum covers an area of 72 hectares and includes 72 independent buildings. Located 8 km west of center Tallinn. Founded in 1957, represents 68 farmhouses united in twelve yards from the north, south and west of Estonia. Along with farms, singly and in groups, old public buildings are located in order to provide an overview of the Estonian national architecture of the last two centuries.
Church of St. Nicholas (Tallinn)
The former Lutheran church, which now houses a museum-concert hall. The building of the church is located in the Old Town of Tallinn. This temple, named after the patron saint of all sailors - St. Nicholas, was founded by German merchants in 13th century The Niguliste Museum is one of the four branches of the Estonian Art Museum.
Estonian History Museum
Founded by an apothecary Johann Burchardt VIII(1776-1838), who maintained a pharmacy known as the Town Hall Pharmacy (existing to this day). In 2011, a major reconstruction was completed in the museum. TO historical museum refers to Maarjamägi Castle. It was transferred to the museum in 1975 as a branch. The exposition of the branch covers the period from the beginning of the XIX century.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Tallinn)
Stauropegial Orthodox cathedral church run by the Estonian Orthodox Church Moscow Patriarchy (since May 1945). It is located in Tallinn, on the rise of Toompea (Vyshgorod).
Its construction was completed in 1900, the author of the project is the architect M. T. Preobrazhensky. Erected in memory of the miraculous rescue of Emperor Alexander III in a railway accident on October 17, 1888.
Kadriorg
Baroque palace and park ensemble in Tallinn. Ekaterinental (Katerintal in German "Katerina's Valley") got its name in honor of wife of Peter I - Catherine I. Estonians call this place Kadriorg.
During the Northern War (1700-1721) Estonia was annexed to Russia. Revel capitulated in the autumn of 1710, and already in December 1711, Peter I, together with Catherine, visited the city for the first time. The king liked the surroundings of Lasnamägi. From here, from the cliff, there was a view of the city and the harbor under construction. In 1714, Peter bought a part of their summer estate from the widow of Drenteln into state ownership. The surviving house of this estate was put in order and adapted for the residence of the king. This house is now known as Peter's house. The modest house was convenient for spending the night and viewing the picturesque surroundings, but the modesty of its size and design did not at all correspond to its purpose. The laying of a new palace and park ensemble was started on July 25, 1718 by order of Peter I. A park was laid out at the palace, ponds were dug out.
Lake Ülemiste
Lake near Tallinn. It has been the city's source of drinking water since the 14th century. The lake is home to various types of fish, including eels, which were brought here in 1986.
According to Estonian legends, Lake Ülemiste arose from the tears of the girl Linda, who, sitting on a boulder, mourned her dead husband Kalev.
The legend of the elder from Yulemist is also widespread. He asks those whom he meets on his way: “Have Tallinn been completed yet?” If someone answers that they have completed the construction, then, according to legend, the Ülemiste lake will flood the city. For this reason, construction in Tallinn should not stop.
Naissaar Island
An island in the Gulf of Finland northwest of Tallinn. Due to the strategic position of the island on the approach to Tallinn, fortifications were built on it with 18th century., and in 1911 the island was turned into a “land dreadnought”, covering the Tallinn raid with its guns.
Until the Second World War, a commune of Estonian Swedes lived on the island, and during the Soviet period military base, civilians were not allowed on it. Currently, the base on the island has been disbanded, and it can be visited to inspect the remains of military installations and a large number of shells of sea mines.
Tallinn Botanical Garden
It was founded on December 1, 1961 in Kloostrimetsa as an institute of the Academy of Sciences. In 1992 Tallinn Botanical Garden joined the Association of Botanic Gardens Baltic countries and in 1994 in international organization nature conservation botanical gardens. The following expositions are presented in the garden: "Tropical House", "Tropics", "Subtropics", "Desert", "Roses", "Tulips", "Rhododendrons", "Rock Garden", "Mixed Forest", "Coniferous Forest".
Monastery of Saint Birgitta
Former Catholic monastery in Tallinn. The church was built in 1436 The structure was a sacral late Gothic building typical of the Middle Ages. The complex was destroyed 1575 during the Livonian War. Only the western pediment of the monastery church, 35 m high, has survived, as well as fragments of the side walls.
The peculiarity of this convent consisted in the fact that male priests were allowed to live and conduct divine services in it. The monastic community did not exceed 85 people - 60 sisters and 25 brothers.
Nowadays, the ancient ruins of the monastery have become a unique attraction and a great place to relax. The object is historical monument architecture. Surrounded by majestic ruins and picturesque nature, concerts are held under open sky and the Day of the monastery is celebrated annually, accompanied by a fair. Excursions are held on the territory of the ruins of the complex.
Narva Castle
Medieval castle in the Estonian city of Narva on the banks of the Narva River, founded by the Danes in 13th century. During its history, the castle belonged to Denmark, the Livonian Order, Russia, Sweden and Estonia. During World War II it was badly damaged. Today the castle has been restored and houses the Narva Museum.
Opposite Herman's castle, on the other side of the Narova River, is the Russian Ivangorod fortress.
Jagala waterfall
This is a waterfall on the river of the same name. The height of the waterfall is about 8 m, and the width is about 50 m.
Karula National Park
Created to protect and represent the hilly landscapes rich in forests and lakes typical of Southern Estonia, as well as to protect and represent the local culture. It was established in 1979, first as a reserve, and in 1993 it was transformed into a national park. In ancient times, during the retreat of the continental glacier, numerous lakes formed at the foot of the Karula hills - 38 of them are located in the park. The largest of the local lakes - Jahyarv(176 ha), and the deepest - Savijärv(18 m).
Waterfall Valaste
Most high waterfall in Estonia (height 30.5 m) and the Baltic countries. In 1996, the commission of the Academy of Sciences declared it a natural heritage and a national symbol of Estonia. The waterfall was created by an artificial channel, organized to drain excess water from the fields. Water falls from a clint composed of sandstone and ancient Silurian limestones. In cold winters, the waterfall freezes.
Valaste is one of the most popular and most visited waterfalls in Estonia. An observation platform has been built for them.
Vilsandi National Park
It includes a part of the island of Vilsandi, a number of small islands to the west of the island of Saaremaa, as well as the Harilaid peninsula of the island of Saaremaa.
Was founded in 1910. Its area is 237.6 km². Maritime climate. Vilsandi is inhabited by 247 species of birds, about 80 species of fish.
Matsalu National Park
whooper swan
Founded in 1957. on the basis of an ornithological reserve and a hunting educational and experimental farm (originally as a reserve) for protection natural complexes and diverse bird fauna (about 280 species, including over 160 nesting ones). Ornithological research has been carried out on the modern territory of the park since 1870. The fauna of the park includes 280 species of birds, 49 species of fish, 47 species of mammals and 772 species of vascular plants. One of the most important migration routes passes here. migratory birds. Waterfowl and marsh birds are especially numerous in the reserve. Whooper swan, northern ducks and sandpipers on migration. Mute swan, gray goose nest in reeds, drakes of mallards and red-headed pochards molt. On grassy meadows river ducks arrange their nests, there are many waders. Eiders, tufted ducks, sheldons, mergansers, scoter, gulls and terns nest on the islands.
Kassari
An island in western Estonia. An Estonian cultural heritage site is located on the island, chapel of Kassari created in 18th century. It is the only functioning stone chapel with a thatched roof. The building was built in the form of a tower, in the Gothic style.
Haapsalu Castle
Bishop's castle with a cathedral, located in the center of the city of Haapsalu in western Estonia. Was founded in 13th century as the center of the Ezel-Vik bishopric. According to the existing legend, during the August full moon, the image of the White Lady appears on the inner wall of the chapel.
Lake Pühajärv (Holy Lake)
Considered one of the most beautiful lakes Estonia.
Tourism in Estonia
In addition to visiting the sights of the country, in Estonia you can do outdoor activities: on foot and cycling trips, skydiving, windsurfing, rafting, sailing, geocaching, karting, golf, bowling, paintball, visit attractions, and in winter ride skiing And snowboarding, on sleigh And ice skating.
History of Estonia
Ancient Estonia
The life of people on the territory of modern Estonia became possible after the retreat of the glacier about 12 thousand years back. In the first millennium BC. e. the population of the territory of present-day Estonia passes to a settled way of life and builds the first fortified settlements. This period (I - the beginning of the II millennium BC) is known in archeology as the culture of stone burials.
In the picture: Bronze Age stone cemeteries in northern Estonia
Middle Ages
The first mentions of the cities of Tartu (Yuriev, Derpt) and Tallinn (Kolyvan, Lidna, Lindanis, Reval) appeared in XI And 12th century IN 1116 g. Novgorodians took the city of the Bear's Head (modern Otepya). At first 12th century. the Livonian Crusade began, which spread to the lands of Chud (Estonia): in 1202. began its conquest by the crusaders. Only in 1211. Chud defeated the crusaders on the river Yumera. IN 1212, according to the Novgorod Chronicle, Prince Mstislav made two successful campaigns against the Chud, capturing a large number of cattle in the first, and conquering the city of Bear's Head without an assault in the second.
Danish Estonia. Warband
IN 1219-1220 as a result of the Danish crusade, the Danes captured modern northern Estonia, but as a result of the uprising in 1223, it was liberated from the crusaders and the Danes. An alliance was concluded with the Novgorodians and Pskovians. By 1227, the German chivalry managed to take over the entire territory of modern Estonia. In the XIV century. Estonia belonged to the Teutonic Order. At the beginning of the XVI century. serfdom was finally established in Estonia. It was divided between Denmark, the Commonwealth, Russia, Sweden as a result of the Livonian War (1558-1583 ).
Swedish Estonia
IN 1570 on the lands of the Livonian Confederation the king Ivan IV the Terrible created Livonian kingdom led by the Danish prince, Duke Magnus, a vassal of the Russian kingdom. During the Livonian War, Russian troops approached the walls of Reval twice: in 1570 and 1577, but both times the siege ended in nothing. At first 17th century the struggle for the Baltic States between Sweden and the Commonwealth continued, and under the terms of the Altmark truce that completed it 1629 the entire Duchy of Livonia (which included modern southern Estonia and northern Latvia) went to Sweden. After the defeat in the war of 1643-1645. Denmark ceded control of Ösel and Sweden took possession of all of present-day Estonia. To end 17th century Sweden retained its position in Estonia.
Estonia within the Russian Empire (1721-1918)
At first 18th century the interests of the Russian Empire in the Baltic region collided with the interests of Sweden. The Northern War (1700-1721) ended with the capitulation of Sweden and the annexation of Estonia and Livonia (Latvia) to the Russian Empire in 1710, which was officially confirmed Treaty of Nystadt 1721 On the territory of modern northern Estonia the Revel province was formed (since 1783 the Estland province), and modern southern Estonia, together with modern northern Latvia, formed Livland province. After the annexation of the Estonian lands to the Russian Empire, Peter I restored the rights of the German aristocracy, which they had lost under Swedish rule. By the end 18th century more than half of the Estonian population of the province can read. In 1802, the Derpt University founded in 1632, which was closed during the Great Northern War, reopened. In the same year, a reform was carried out that softened serfdom, ensured the property rights of peasants to movable property and created courts to resolve peasant issues. The abolition of serfdom in 1816 was an important step towards the liberation of Estonian peasants from German dependence, but several more decades passed before they received the right to acquire land as property.
IN 1914 140 career officers of Estonian nationality served in the ranks of the Russian army, about a hundred thousand Estonians participated in the battles of the First World War, and 2 thousand of them received officer ranks.
Estonia under German occupation
25 February 1918 German troops entered Revel, and by March 4, all Estonian lands were completely occupied by the Germans and included in the High Command of all German armed forces in the East.
By Peace to Brest the RSFSR renounced its rights to the Baltic regions occupied by Germany. The German occupation authorities did not recognize the independence of Estonia and established a military-occupation regime in the region, under which officers of the German army or Baltic Germans were appointed to key administrative positions. A military governorship was formed in the occupied territory.
War for independence
Estonian War of Independence during 1918-1920. Estonian and Western historians also call it the "War of Liberation". The defeat of Germany in the First World War put on the agenda the question of the evacuation of German troops from the occupied eastern lands. In 1918, units of the Soviet 7th Army, including the red Estonian regiments, occupied Narva, where the Estland Labor Commune was proclaimed on the same day. The Soviet offensive also developed from the southeast, from Pskov. Decrees of Soviet power began to operate on the territory occupied by the Red Army. But January 7th 1919. Estonian troops, reinforced by the Russian White Guards and Finnish volunteers, and with the active support of the English squadron, went on the offensive in the Narva direction, and a little later on the Pskov one. Units of the Red Army and detachments of the Estland Labor Commune were driven out of Estonia.
February 2 1920 between the RSFSR and Republic of Estonia was concluded Yuryevsky peace treaty which both parties officially recognized each other. The border between the two countries was delimited. As a result, Estonia ended up with a rather vast territory with a predominance of the Russian population. These were mainly the areas of the Pechora Territory, the Peipsi and the territory east of the Narva River. According to the current, official position of Estonia, the Tartu Peace Treaty did not lose its legal force in 1940 with the cessation of the existence of the Republic of Estonia as an independent state, since the entry of Estonia into the USSR in modern Estonia is officially interpreted as an occupation. But the RSFSR became the first state to legally recognize the Republic of Estonia. And here is what the former minister of the Provisional Government of Russia wrote Guchkov Churchill: “Massive evictions of Russian citizens are being carried out from Estonia without explanation of reasons and even without warning ... Russian people in these provinces are powerless, defenseless and helpless. The peoples and governments of the young Baltic states are completely intoxicated with the wine of national independence and political freedom.”
Political life from 1920 to 1934 In Estonia, it was characterized by a multi-party system, an extravaganza of struggle between parties in parliament and rapidly changing governments (23 governments were replaced in 14 years).
1934 coup d'état
March 12 1934.K. Päts together with J. Laidoner, who again led the Estonian army, carried out a coup d'état. The military coup resulted in authoritarian rule and declared a state of emergency. The period called "Age of Silence". In accordance with the new constitution, the president, elected for 6 years (K. Päts), became the head of state. In 1938, "laggard camps" were created - camps for the forced labor of the unemployed. There was a prison regime, a 12-hour working day and punishment with rods. In "camps for idlers" they imprisoned for a period of 6 months to 3 years all "staggering without work and livelihood."
Accession of Estonia to the USSR
In March 1939. The USSR negotiated with England and France, realizing the real danger of the impending war. The USSR proposed measures for the joint prevention of Italian-German aggression against European countries and put forward on April 17, 1939 the following provisions obliging (USSR, England and France): to provide all kinds of assistance, including military, to Eastern European countries located between the Baltic and Black seas and bordering the Soviet Union; conclude for a period of 5-10 years an agreement on mutual assistance, including military, in the event of aggression in Europe against any of the contracting states (USSR, England and France. After the Soviet leadership recognized the failure of negotiations with England and France, the USSR began negotiations with Germany.
August 23 1939 signed a non-aggression pact between Germany and the Soviet Union Molotov-Ribbentrop pact). According to the secret additional protocol on the delimitation of spheres of mutual interests in Eastern Europe in the event of a "territorial and political reorganization", the inclusion of Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Eastern Poland and Bessarabia in the sphere of interests of the USSR was envisaged.
The Second World War
A significant part of the Estonians perceived the arrival of the German army as a liberation from the Soviet yoke and enthusiastically supported the occupation authorities. Collaboration organization formed "Omakaitse"("Self-defence"), which collaborated with the German occupation regime. Members of Omakaitse, the 3rd Estonian SS Volunteer Brigade, as well as police battalions participated in battles with partisans, executions of civilians, robberies, the destruction of entire villages in Belarus and the mass transfer of civilians to Germany. Soviet troops liberated Estonia in 1944., and power in Tallinn passed into the hands of the government of the Estonian SSR, which returned from evacuation.
Estonia within the USSR
September 29 1960 The Council of Europe adopted a resolution condemning the military occupation of the Baltic countries by the USSR. Since that time, anti-Soviet demonstrations began, including youth ones. During Gorbachev's perestroika, protests against the system became open and frequent. November 16 1988. The Supreme Soviet of the Estonian SSR declared the sovereignty of Estonia.
Estonian independence
January 12 1991 Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of the RSFSR Boris Yeltsin made a visit to Tallinn, during which he signed with the Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Estonia Arnold Ruutel Treaty on the foundations of interstate relations between the RSFSR and the Republic of Estonia. In Article I of the Treaty, the parties recognized each other as independent states. 6 September 1991. The State Council of the USSR officially recognized the independence of Estonia.
When it comes to the Baltic countries, you can immediately imagine the mild climate, the majority of people who do not require knowledge of a foreign language, but understand you speaking Russian. Estonia, being one of these republics, boasts not only that it produces stunningly beautiful wooden and knitted products, but also beautiful capital- Tallinn. This amazing city, as well as . The twentieth century was incredibly full of events in the history of this city. For 100 years, Tallinn managed to be part of several states and repeatedly change its name.
Getting to Tallinn
A plane from Russia arrives at the Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport after a two-hour flight. If you are flying from Moscow, then the cost of a return ticket to Tallinn will be about one hundred and fifteen dollars per person. From St. Petersburg, a ticket costs about the same, as well as the flight also takes two hours. Quite fast buses depart from the airport to the city center.
If the option with the plane does not suit you, then there is an opportunity to go to the capital of Estonia by train. Railway tracks have been built between Tallinn and two Russian cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. Travel time will be about six hours, but you can drive and see the nature of the Baltic states.
Climate of Tallinn
Tallinn is a Baltic city, therefore, like in any other city in this region, on the hottest days the thermometer needle does not exceed 30 degrees. Here, nature can surprise you with blossoming trees in February and heavy rains in summer. In summer, the air temperature is about plus twenty degrees, and in winter it varies from zero to minus five degrees. To visit the country as a tourist, the period April-May is recommended, as the temperature is warm and the amount of precipitation is much lower than in other periods of the year. Also during this period, you can go to sea on ships with less risk of getting caught in a storm.
Restaurants worth visiting
In Tallinn, you can find dishes for every taste. Here you can find a variety of seafood and meat dishes. It is impossible to call the national food of Estonia, like any other Baltic country, exquisite. Here you should not expect anything particularly different from Russian cuisine, but you can still find differences and some tourists even like these differences.
If you want to taste delicious Estonian or Baltic cuisine in Tallinn, then you should go to the Rataskaevu 16 restaurant. There you will be offered delicious dishes of Estonian and Baltic cuisine, as well as full service.
Restaurant "Von Krahli Aed" is also ready to offer a good range of dishes at fairly low prices.
Fans of more exotic oriental cuisine can go to the Vietnamese restaurant "Saegon". Sociable and good-natured staff will offer you a good choice among various dishes of oriental cuisine.
For those who prefer Mediterranean food that is close to Spanish or Italian cuisine, then you can have a great lunch while sitting in the Pulcinella Italia Restaurant. You can taste Estonian and relatively not very expensive fast food by going to the Texas Honky Tonk and Cantina.
Popular excursions for tourists
It is best to start your journey, of course, from the heart of Tallinn - its main Town Hall Square. Here you can find many beautiful buildings that were created in different centuries and in different eras. One of the main buildings is the city hall building.
Go to Old city Tallinn and you can visit various architectural delights of medieval Estonia there. It will take about two hours to walk around the entire old town and listen to the history of the main attractions of this area of Tallinn from the guide. There are many buildings here, related not only to different styles architecture, but also different religions. There are Orthodox buildings, and there are Lutheran ones. The cost of the tour can be forty euros.
You can also go a few kilometers from the city, and you will discover amazing beauty view. A large number of various waterfalls will not leave indifferent tourists.
Fans of cultural education can visit a number of theaters in Tallinn. You can visit the national opera "Estonia", which was founded in the nineteenth century. To watch performances in Russian, you can go to the "Russian Theater of Estonia".
What hotels can you stay in
In the capital of Estonia, you can find rooms in hotels of any class. The choice for tourists may depend on the cost of this room and the conditions that the hotel is ready to provide for a comfortable stay in it.
Two-star hotels like the Center Hotel have fairly spacious rooms. This hotel will offer you free Wi-Fi internet, as well as invite you to have breakfast for buffet. Buses run from the hotel to the Zoological Park and the city's airport.
The three-star Boutique Hotel Old Town Maestros will offer rooms with an excellent shower room, as well as terraces and good view to the city. Guests of the hotel have the opportunity to exercise in the fitness room.
In the four-star Meriton Grand Conference and Spa Hotel you can book a room designed in a modern style. Here you will be offered to visit the hotel sauna and relax in the guest room. You can also use the services of a solarium and get an artificial tan.
Five-star hotels like the Radisson Blu Hotel Tallinn and Hotel Telegraaf have the best conditions in the capital for their visitors. Here you can use the services of the gym, and swim in the crystal clear cool pool and relax in a comfortable hotel room.
Basic prices for travelers in Tallinn
We can say that prices in the capital of Estonia are very democratic in relation to the guests of the capital. Here you can spend the night relatively inexpensively in a good hotel, dine in a decent restaurant or cafe, and also buy yourself exclusive items from young Estonian designers.
The cost of a night in a two-star hotel starts from thirty-eight dollars, and can reach ninety-one dollars, as, for example, at the Center Hotel. Three-star hotels are ready to issue a room at a minimum cost of sixty-one dollars per night. The most expensive three-star hotel will provide a room in their suite for one hundred and five US dollars. The four-star Meriton Grand Conference and Spa Hotel offers a hotel room for one hundred and forty US dollars per night. In the five-star Radisson Blu Hotel Tallinn, you can book a room for one hundred and fifty dollars per night.
Dine in Tallinn can be quite cheap. In fast food establishments, you can eat for about seven US dollars. In oriental restaurants, you can order a full meal for only fifteen US dollars. In the restaurant of traditional Estonian cuisine "Rataskaev16" you will have to leave from thirty US dollars for dinner.
Population of Tallinn
Today, a little less than four hundred and fifty thousand people live in the capital of Estonia. The population of the city has always been dependent on who owned the city. At the time of belonging to Germany, more Germans lived there, when the city became part of the USSR, the Russian population moved there. Now, as the city and capital of free Estonia, seventy-five percent of Estonians live in Tallinn. However, the second people living in this wonderful city are Russians. There are about twenty percent of them in the city. The rest of the peoples who live in Tallinn are Poles, Ukrainians, Belarusians, Jews and others.
Shopping in Tallinn
Tallinn has a wide variety of boutiques and shops. Shops of shoes and classic men's clothing are very popular here. This is due, first of all, to the culture that the city has instilled. A large number of various offices and business centers are located here. Thanks to this fact, Tallinn can be safely called a business city.
Very popular with locals and tourists shopping mall Christine Keskus. In the huge premises of the shopping center, you can find everything you need for yourself, as well as for your home or car. Here are some of the most expensive shops Tallinn. Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Armani are just a few of the high-end clothing stores that can be found in the city.
On Viru Square you can also find quite expensive boutiques and fashion stores, which are combined into one large shopping center "Viru Keskus". Here you can also find quite nice shops that sell the finest porcelain products and accessories, as well as all kinds of gift souvenirs for tourists of the city. One of the main marketplaces of the city can be considered "Ülimiste", where you can not only buy yourself a few beautiful things, but also enjoy the Scandinavian-style interior.
Tallinn establishments: clubs, museums, lookouts
As for museums, there are a lot of them in Tallinn. Museums in the city were rebuilt over many centuries, and now you can find many museums here that were built at different times. Here you can find a variety of museums, some of which may be useful for adults, while others are very interesting for young children.
The most popular museum among tourists in Tallinn are the large sea gate, as well as a tower called "Fat Margaret". At one time, this building was built for a reason, but in order to protect the city of Tallinn from sea attacks. Then the gate simply caused great impressions among the guests of the city, and even later, these buildings were turned into a museum, which tells the history of the Estonian navy. Children will be interested in going to the children's museum. Here they can find a great variety of puppets, which were created by Estonian puppet masters.
In Tallinn, you can also find several clubs where the nightlife is in full swing. If you like more exclusive and sophisticated music, then you should go to "Club Prive". It plays great live music in the style of jazz and pop. For more incendiary and rhythmic music, it is better to go to Venus Club.
What sights can be seen in Tallinn
The Estonian capital has a combination of past and present. Modern buildings of the city in conjunction with historical architectural monuments create an unforgettable atmosphere in which you plunge completely and irrevocably. There is a huge number of various museums where you can find not only the masterpieces of the great artists of the past, but also excellent works of modern masters.
But museums are only one of the components of the legendary Estonian city. There is an interesting zoo here, which was built in the thirties of the twentieth century. Also in the capital of Estonia is one of the most high TV towers Baltic States, yielding only to Riga. With a height of three hundred and fourteen meters, the TV tower can even make it possible to see the coast of Finland from its observation deck in clear weather.
There are parks of stunning beauty and cleanliness in Tallinn. If you want to take a walk under the branchy trees and plunge into nature that resembles British nature, then you can go to the Rannamägi Bastion, which is very popular among the city's residents. The city also has the Governor's Garden, which is rightfully considered the best park in Tallinn. Here, in addition to the usual walk, you can arrange a mini tour of the sights that are present in the park.
