St. Olaf’s Church
Harjumaa
St. Olaf’s Church, known locally as Oleviste kirik, is a prominent Gothic-style church located in Tallinn's Old Town. Originally built in the 12th century by Scandinavian merchants, it is dedicated to King Olaf II of Norway, a revered saint. The church has undergone significant rebuilding during the 14th and 15th centuries, with its towering spire historically considered among the tallest structures worldwide, reaching approximately 124 meters today. It has survived multiple fires caused by lightning strikes and has served various religious communities-from Roman Catholic to Lutheran, and currently as a Baptist church. The church is notable for its richly decorated interior, including a large pneumatic organ built in the 19th century and a view platform offering panoramic vistas. Its tower was once used by the Soviet KGB for surveillance. St. Olaf’s remains an active place of worship and a key cultural and architectural symbol of Tallinn.
Plan your trip to Estonia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and to experience the panoramic views from the viewing platform, open from April 1st. Tickets for tower access should be purchased in advance when possible. The church offers regular services and live broadcasts on Sundays and Thursdays, providing opportunities for cultural and spiritual engagement. Modest discounts may be available for groups or special occasions. The best time to visit is spring through early autumn for optimal weather and access to the tower.
Interesting facts
- •St. Olaf’s Church tower was once considered the tallest building in the world during the 16th century, estimated up to 159 meters in some sources.
- •The church’s spire has been struck by lightning around ten times, causing fires that led to extensive rebuilding.
- •From 1944 to 1991, the Soviet KGB used the church’s spire as a radio tower and surveillance post.
- •The organ inside the church, built between 1840 and 1842 by Friedrich Hermann Lütkemüller, features 76 registers and pneumatic actions.
- •A legend tells of a stranger who built the church’s tower but fell to his death when his name was discovered, symbolizing a curse related to the church’s height.
History
St.
Olaf’s Church dates back to the 12th century, with first written records from 1267.
It was extensively rebuilt in the 14th and 15th centuries, acquiring its Gothic form and soaring tower.
The church was originally Roman Catholic, became Lutheran during the 16th-century Reformation, and later a Baptist church in 1950 after Soviet occupation.
Its tower was historically one of the tallest in the world and was used by the KGB as a radio tower and surveillance point from 1944 to 1991.
The church suffered several fires over centuries, notably in 1625 and 1820, leading to multiple reconstructions.
Place Guide
Viewing Platform
Located 60 meters above ground, the viewing platform offers panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town and beyond, accessible to visitors during the warmer months.
Main Nave and Gothic Architecture15th century
The church’s main nave is a three-aisled basilica reaching 31 meters in height, showcasing Gothic architectural elements from the 15th century, including ribbed vaults and pointed arches.
The Organ1840-1842
Built by Friedrich Hermann Lütkemüller between 1840 and 1842, this large pneumatic organ has 76 registers, three manuals, and a pedal, known for its rich sound and historical significance.
St. Mary (Bremer) Chapel1521
Dating back to 1521, this chapel located on the south side of the choir is an exquisite example of late Gothic architecture, containing the cenotaph of merchant Hans Pawel.
Contact
Phone: 641 2241
