Tallinn Landmarks and Monuments

(Tallinn, Harjumaa, Estonia, EE

With a rich Estonian heritage and many interesting buildings that celebrate its past, the city of Tallinn contains countless impressive landmarks and monuments, perhaps the most notable of which is the orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which dominates much of the city from its elevated hilltop setting.

Many other churches have also become notable landmarks in Tallinn, such as the 14th-century Church of the Holy Ghost and the 13th-century Dome Church, which houses over 100 different medieval coats of arms.

Other significant landmarks from Tallinn's rich history include the Town Hall (Raekoda), which presides over the market square of Raekoja Plats, and the Toompea Castle, on Toompea Hill (Cathedral Hill). Known locally as the Castrum Danorum, Toompea Castle is one of Estonia's most famous and easy to spot monuments to the past and was first constructed out of wood in the 10th century.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Address: Lossi Plats 10, Tallinn, EE-10130, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 44 3484
This striking orthodox landmark was built in a typically flamboyant Russian style at the very end of the 19th century and stands atop Toompea Hill. For many years, the locals in Tallinn wanted the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to be demolished, since it served as a continual reminder of Estonia's Russian occupation. Fortunately this beautiful building still remains standing and since the country regained its independence in 1991, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral has been completed restored and gained a place in the heart of the city's residents at last.
Open hours: daily 08:00 to 19:00
Admission: free

Church of the Holy Ghost

Address: Pühavaimu 2, Tallinn, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 46 4430
An extremely important church with is amongst the most historic in the whole of Tallinn, the Church of the Holy Ghost was constructed during the 1360s and has been well maintained over the years, retaining much of its original medieval appearance. The tower bell was created in 1433 and is currently the oldest in Estonia, while the church's painted clock face is also noteworthy and serves as the oldest public timekeeper within the city itself.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 10:00 to 15:00
Admission: charge

Dome Church / Toomkirik Cathedral

Address: Toomkooli 6, Tallinn, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 44 4140
Established as far back as the early 1200s, Dome Church is an ancient structure and often also goes by the name of St. Mary's Church or the Toomkirik.

This gothic building is home to a particularly grand pipe organ from the 1780s. Each Sunday, regular parish services take place and all are welcome.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 09:00 to 16:00
Admission: free, donations suggested when visiting

Kadriorg Palace (Christine's Palace)

Address: Weizenbergi 37, Tallinn, EE-10127, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 06 6400
A visit to this beautiful Italianate palace is not to be missed and tourists should be sure to bring their camera. Kadriorg Palace boasts an immediately recognisable red and white painted facade, along with stunning formally landscaped gardens, with symmetrical planting, topiary and fountains. The palace is amongst Tallinn's finest and was commission by Tsar Peter I in the early part of the 18th century. A foreign branch of the Art Museum of Estonia is based here, while close by Swan Lake is also of interest.
Open hours: Wednesday to Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

Tallinn Town Hall (Raekoda)

Address: Raekoja Plats 1, Tallinn, EE-10146, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 45 7900
Originally home to the town council and standing on the southerly side of Raekoja Square, Tallinn Town Hall has become a familiar Gothic structure and its long history dates back as far as the 13th century. With many comical gargoyles and a tall octagon tower, the Town Hall is equally impressive once you step inside and is often used to host concerts.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

Toompea Castle (Castrum Danorum)

Address: Lossi Plats 1, Tallinn, Estonia, EE
Tel: +372 06 31 6537
Rebuilt in stone during the 13th century, the castle is topped by Tall Hermann's Tower (Pikk Hermann), which was completed in 1370 and subsequently made taller some 200 years later. Today, Toompea Castle provides a taste of Tallinn's history and also houses the Estonian Parliament.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge