Explore the Beautiful Churches in Tallinn
Tallinn is a beautiful city known for its medieval Old Town and picturesque views of the Baltic Sea. It’s also a city that has a rich religious history. Thus, the many churches you can find here. It is home to several beautiful churches, each with its unique story and architectural style. When you go to one of the viewing platforms, you can tell there is more than one church in the city. Let’s have a closer look at them.
St. Olaf’s Church
One of the most iconic churches in Tallinn is St. Olaf’s Church. You will find it in the heart of the Old Town. It is among the top attractions. The church got its name after the Norwegian king Olaf II, known for his Christianization efforts. It was built in the 12th century and has undergone several renovations and additions over the years. Today, it is one of the tallest churches in Estonia, standing over 120 meters tall. The church’s spire offers stunning city views, making it a popular tourist attraction.
St. Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral, known as the Dome Church, stands on Toompea Hill. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city and has a rich history that spans centuries. The church was built in the 13th century by German crusaders who were tasked with spreading Christianity throughout the region. Over the years, it has undergone numerous renovations and additions, resulting in today’s beautiful structure. The church’s exterior features a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles, while the interior is predominantly Gothic. One of the most notable features of St. Mary’s Cathedral is its beautiful stained glass windows that were installed in the 19th century. You can also waddle up the church tower to enjoy panoramic views of Tallinn’s Old Town and surrounding areas.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Another must-visit church in Tallinn is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, built in the late 19th century during the Russian Empire. This one you can’t miss. You will find it if you waddle up to Toompea Hill. It’s famous for its striking onion domes and intricate mosaics. It was built in a Russian Revival style, and it is impressive. We felt like being in Russia for a moment.
The church is named after the Prince of Novgorod, Alexander Nevsky (1220-1263). When Estonia gained independence after the First World War, the Estonian authorities wanted to demolish it as it symbolized a period of Russian occupation. However, many Russian refugees were in the capital after the Bolshevik revolution, so the cathedral was not demolished.
Read also: The Towers and Gates of Tallinn
The Niguliste Church
Finally, the Niguliste Church, also known as St. Nicholas’ Church, is another notable religious site in the city. This church was built in the 13th century. You can find stunning artwork inside, including a famous painting by Bernt Notke called “Dance of Death.”
St. John’s Church
John’s Church in Tallinn is one of the oldest neo-Gothic churches in Estonia. The church was built in the 14th century, but like many other buildings in the area, it has undergone several renovations and additions over the years. It has been a place of worship for Lutherans and Baptists over the years and has served as a concert venue for various music festivals and events. The church is still an active place of worship and is open to visitors for tours and services. You can find it at Freedom Square in downtown Tallinn.
Tallinn is home to many beautiful and historic churches that are worth visiting. From the towering spire of St. Olaf’s Church to the opulent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, each church offers a unique glimpse into Tallinn’s rich religious history and architectural heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just taking in beautiful views of the city, Tallinn’s churches are sure to impress.
Enjoy your waddle around Tallinn!
