Toompea Castle
Ideal: Ideal for those who love views, photography, and historic cityscapes.
For centuries the upper town on the limestone hill was ruled by nobles, while the city below was run by merchants; each had its own law, and the gates between them were locked at night. The flag flying from Pikk Hermann tower at the castle corner is considered the symbol of who governs the country — when the Estonian flag was raised there again in 1989, it became one of the most powerful images of the independence process. The pink expressionist building added inside the medieval walls in 1922 now houses parliament.
Quick facts
- Built
- 13th century
- Heritage status
- architectural monument
Facts from Wikidata, photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Did you know?
Why do the castle's façades look so different?
The rear is the medieval fortress, while the front is a pink Baroque palace added under Catherine II in the 18th century. Two faces of the same building belong to entirely different eras.
Why is the flag raised with a ceremony each morning?
The flag on Pikk Hermann tower symbolises Estonian sovereignty. It is raised at sunrise to the national anthem and lowered at sunset — and which flag has flown there sums up the country's history.
Why is the Russian cathedral on the hill controversial?
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built in 1900 directly opposite the parliament to assert Russian imperial dominance. Demolition was proposed in the 1920s but never carried out.
Why go?
- To see Tallinn Old Town from above
- To capture impressive city views from lookout terraces
- To experience the historic upper town and castle atmosphere
Travel tip
Add the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewpoints to the same walking route.
