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  • Ruins

Ruins of Helme Order Castle

Valgamaa Kutseõppekeskuse, Tõrva vald, Valga maakond, 68608

The ruins of Helme Order Castle are situated on a steep slope by the Pärnu-Valga road. The castle is thought to have been built in the first half of the 14th century. Parts of its walls with their distinctive window openings remain standing today. Legend has it that a young virgin was entombed within its walls in order to further strengthen it – whether there is any truth to the story is up to visitors to decide! Over the centuries the castle has been governed by Germans, Russians, Lithuanians and finally Swedes – who destroyed it in 1658.Did you know…?*In the valley below the castle is the Doctor’s Spring, whose waters are said to cure seven different ailments.

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  • Ruins

Raadi Manor

Raadi Manor, which stands on the border of the city of Tartu, had its glory days in the first half of the 19th century with its magnificent art gallery and library and salon evenings. The manor then belonged to the von Liphart family.The main building of the manor was destroyed by the bombing in 1944. The manor park, together with the ruins of the main building and the gate, are included in the list of national cultural monuments.The area forms a distinctive complex: there is the magnificent manor complex, as well as a woodshed, a water tower, an ice cellar, and a restored wall. In the centre of the complex, there is the natural Raadi lake and the restored manor park.

  • Ruins

Ruins of Rõngu Vassal Castle

The ruins of Rõngu Vassal Castle are located in Rõngu, Elva Parish, Tartu County, and are among the most fascinating medieval monuments in South Estonia. The castle was likely established in the 14th century as a vassal castle of the Bishop of Tartu and was part of the bishopric's defense system, guarding important roads and the surrounding area. During medieval times, it was a complex of fortified buildings with an inner courtyard enclosed by walls. The castle also housed a chapel, which is mentioned in sources from the early 15th century. The castle lost its significance in the 16th century during the Livonian War when it was destroyed and fell into ruins. Today, the remnants of Rõngu Vassal Castle consist of wall remains located in the picturesque Lossimäe Park. The area is freely accessible and is suitable for walks, exploring history, and photography. The ruins offer an interesting time-travel experience for history enthusiasts and families looking to combine nature outings with cultural heritage exploration.

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Tartu Cathedral

The cathedral located on Tartu's Toome Hill is one of Estonia's most remarkable and largest medieval structures, and the only church with two towers. The church's construction began as early as the 13th century, when Tartu was an important bishopric. Construction work and additions continued into the early 16th century. During the Reformation, the cathedral was abandoned and, over time, turned into ruins. Nevertheless, these powerful walls and spacious vaults remain one of the most outstanding examples of brick Gothic architecture in Old Livonia, reflecting the scale and craftsmanship of medieval architecture. The University of Tartu Museum operates in the cathedral building, showcasing the history of science, university education, and the development of Tartu's academic spirit. It is possible to visit the cathedral towers, which offer one of the most beautiful views of Tartu and the Emajõgi Valley. Next to the towers is Toompood, where you can find gifts, science-themed souvenirs, and memorabilia with university symbols. In the evenings, a light installation adds a magical atmosphere.

  • Ruins

Ruins of the Uue-Saaluse manor

The Uue-Saaluse manor, that was built in 1540, has had many owners, the first one being Reinhold Salis, after whom the manor is also named.The heart of the manor is in a beautiful place on a hill on the eastern shore of Lake Kavadi. The manor belonged to the von Maydell family from 1843 to 1919, when it was dispossessed.The Saaluse manor was nationalised after that, land was divided among those, who participated in the War of Independence, and the manor staff, until their own houses were built. Later the building was used for public festivals, as a school for two years and then as a community centre, which also housed a shop.Only ruins remain of the manor.

  • Ruins

12th Century Ruins of the Otepää Bishop’s Castle

Here You can see the ruins of the first known brick building in Estonia on top of the Otepää Hill Fort. Herman I, who became the Bishop of Tartu in autumn 1224, established the first stronghold of its diocese here. A settlement, which was mainly populated by craftsmen and merchants, appeared around the bishop’s castle in the 13th century.Interesting facts: * the oldest traces of a settlement on the Fort date back to approximately the change of the system of chronology; in the 11th century, Otepää was the most important stronghold of the ancient Ugandi County; * a metal map of the Estonian strongholds was installed on the Fort Hill in 1937.

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Following in the footsteps of the barons

This is a four-hour event taking place in the castle, its grounds and other parts of Alatskivi.The day includes:* A guided tour of the castle* A tour of the castle grounds and/or the nearby forest led by a cultural heritage guide, covering the manor-era buildings and other sites* A manor-era meal in the castle restaurantAlatskivi is located in Eastern Estonia, and at first glance the castle seems like something out of a fairytale with its battlements and towers. It is one of the most beautiful manor houses in the country.The minimum size of the group is 4 people.

  • Ruins

Otepää Hill Fort

Otepää Hill Fort represents one of the places worth discovering in South Estonia and is recommended for those interested in nature holidays. Come and conquer the peak of the approximately 13,000-year-old Otepää Hill Fort and take a look at the city of Otepää and its surroundings. Have a picnic, see the ruins of the stone fort founded by Bishop Herman in 1224, and explore the map of ancient Estonian forts. In the 11th century, Otepää was the most important stronghold of the ancient Ugandi County. One of the strongest fortresses in Ancient Estonia was located on this hill. The oldest known firearm in Europe and an ancient war trumpet have also been found here. Come and discover the history of this ancient fortress!

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Gardest Home and Garden Centre

The unique Gardest Home and Garden Centre, which is the largest garden centre in the Baltics, offers a wide range of outdoor and indoor plants, seasonal plants, tools, interior products, pet products, and gourmet goods. During the summer season, we also offer outdoor furniture and barbecues. During the winter period, the centre turns into a beautiful winter wonderland.Here, you will also find the Muru restaurant, which offers a healthy menu and daily specials. It is convenient to come to the Gardest by car – we have a spacious free parking lot, bicycle, or public transport – there is a bus stop right in front of the centre.Come with your family – pets are also welcome with us!

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