Neighbourhood · UNESCO
Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn, Estonia
A walled medieval town of cobbled lanes, guild houses, towers and steep red roofs.
Castle · Estonia · Harju
Toompea Castle
The hilltop castle that is now home to the Estonian parliament, with the tower Tall Hermann.
Free to enter about 30 min
For storytellers
Why Toompea Castle matters
On top of the limestone hill, the upper town is dominated by this castle, which has a pink 18th-century palace wing attached to medieval walls. Today it is the home of Estonia's parliament. At the corner stands Tall Hermann, a tall tower, and the flag flown from it is a symbol of the country. You cannot go inside without arrangement, but the square outside is worth a visit.
Talking points
- The castle now houses the Estonian parliament.
- The tower Tall Hermann flies the national flag.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
More in Tallinn
Viewpoint
Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform
Tallinn, Estonia
The most famous viewpoint in Tallinn, looking out over the red roofs of the lower old town.
Church, mosque or temple
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Tallinn, Estonia
A grand onion-domed Orthodox cathedral from the late 19th century, facing Toompea Castle.
Palace
Kadriorg Palace and Park
Tallinn, Estonia
A baroque palace built by Peter the Great, surrounded by a leafy park and several museums.
Festival or event
Song Festival Grounds
Tallinn, Estonia
A huge open-air amphitheatre where Estonia's traditional song festival takes place.
Church, mosque or temple
St Olaf's Church
Tallinn, Estonia
A tall medieval church with a landmark spire and a tower you can climb for views over the old town.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.