Tallinn Town Hall
Harjumaa
Tallinn Town Hall, located in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town, is the oldest surviving Gothic town hall in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region. Constructed originally in the 13th century and expanded through the 14th and 15th centuries, it has served as the political, economic, and social center of medieval Tallinn. The building is notable for its two-storey limestone structure with a spacious basement, a 64-meter high tower topped by the famous weather vane 'Old Thomas' since 1530, which has become a symbol of the city. The town hall's architecture reflects its historical roles as a city government seat, courthouse, and even a theater. It is situated on the south side of the medieval market square (Town Hall Square), surrounded by historic streets like Kullassepa and Dunkri. Since 1997, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing for Tallinn Old Town. Today, while no longer housing city administration, it functions as a museum, concert venue, and a representational building, showcasing centuries of architectural and civic history. The building's preservation earned it the Europa Nostra medal in 2005, recognizing its significance in European architectural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Tallinn Town Hall during the warmer months for the best experience of the Old Town atmosphere. Booking guided tours or tickets in advance is recommended to avoid queues, especially during peak seasons and cultural events. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The town hall also hosts concerts and exhibitions, so checking the official website for event schedules can enhance the visit. The tower climb offers panoramic views but may be limited to certain times or weather conditions.
Zajímavosti
- •Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest surviving Gothic town hall in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region.
- •The weather vane 'Old Thomas' has been atop the tower since 1530 and is a symbol of Tallinn.
- •In the 1870s, workers discovered 14 wooden boxes of historic documents dating back to 1248 behind a cabin in the town hall.
- •The building's tower is 64 meters tall, offering panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town.
- •The town hall received the Europa Nostra medal in 2005 for its exemplary conservation and restoration efforts.
Historie
The Tallinn Town Hall was first mentioned in records in 1322 as a meeting place with a large warehouse.
Initially a single-storey building with a basement and attic storeroom, it was gradually expanded and rebuilt over the 14th and early 15th centuries to its current Gothic form.
In 1374, the building was covered with a board roof, and by 1404, under master stonecutter Ghercke, it had gained much of its present layout and facade.
The tower, topped with the 'Old Thomas' weather vane, was completed in the early 16th century.
The building served as the seat of city administration until 1970 and has since been preserved as a historical monument and cultural venue.
Throughout its history, the town hall has witnessed Tallinn's development from a medieval Hanseatic city to a modern capital.
Průvodce po místě
Town Hall Tower1530
Standing 64 meters tall, the tower is crowned by the iconic 'Old Thomas' weather vane, a figure dressed as a 16th-century city guard. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Tallinn's medieval Old Town and beyond.
Great Council Chamber1404
This large historic meeting room was used by the town council for political and economic decisions. It features Gothic architectural elements and authentic period furnishings that reflect the building's administrative past.
Basement and Wine Cellar14th century
The spacious basement originally functioned as a warehouse and wine cellar. It is supported by four-sided pillars and features simple round-arched vaults, demonstrating medieval construction techniques.
Kontakt
Telefon: 645 7900