Standing guard at the north end of Pikk street are two of Tallinn's most impressive defensive structures, the Great Coastal Gate (Suur Rannavärav) and Fat Margaret tower (Paks Margareeta).
They were built not only to defend the city from the seaward side of town, but also to impress any visitors arriving via the harbour.
The Great Coastal Gate, along with the Viru Gates, are the last of six gates that controlled access to the town in Medieval times. The gate system here on Pikk street originated in the 1300s, but it was during reconstruction in the early 16th century that the Fat Margaret cannon tower was added. Built from 1511 to 1530, this hefty, round tower has a diameter of 25 metres, a height of about 20 metres, and walls up to 5 metres thick.
The origins of Fat Margaret's name are a mystery. Some theories insist it was named for one of its larger cannons, while others hint at a cook called Margaret who once worked here.
In any case, the tower has served a number of different functions throughout its history. It has been used a storehouse for gunpowder and weapons, and as a prison.
Now it's home to the Estonian Maritime Museum, which provides a detailed look at the nation's seafaring past. Visitors should be sure to climb up to its rooftop viewing platform to get a lovely view of Old Town and the bay.
The Estonian Maritime Museum’s ships are truly a treat for all lovers of maritime history and equipment. The submarine Lembit, which was built in 1936, was part of the pre-WWII Baltic Navy. The Suur Tõll, built in 1914, is the largest surviving steam-dr...
Location: Narva mnt 95, Pirita, Tallinn, Harjumaa, 10127
Built in1959, Tallinn Song Festival Ground is popular events venue, which most of all is known as a place, where after every 5 years takes place Song Festival, where nearly 25 000 singers participate and has audience of nearly 100 000 people. ...
Location: Kloostrimetsa tee 58A, Pirita, Tallinn, Harjumaa, 11913
TV Tower was built in 1980 for Summer Olympics sailing regatta that was held in Tallinn. Today, this 314 m high building is a great example of Soviets architecture. Tower itself is made of 190 m high reinforced concrete and 124 m steel mast is attached ...
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