• History & Culture
  • Architecture and history
  • Lookout towers
  • Churches
  • Ruins

Tartu Cathedral

Lossi tn 25, Tartu linn, Tartu maakond, 51003

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.

Amenities

  • Information boards
  • Paid parking
  • Recreation area/picnic ground
  • Souvenirs

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  • Churches

Urvaste church and cemetery on the shores of Lake Uhtjärv

The EELC St. Urbanus' Church in Urvaste, Võru County is one of the oldest and most unique country churches. The earliest written records date back to 1413, which means that 600 years have passed since the church was first mentioned.The church we see today – a three-naved Gothic basilica – was consecrated on 5 September 1889. The entire interior of the church also dates back to this time. In 1938, The organ was built by the Kriisa brothers in 1938, while the church bells date back to 1832.From the yellow National Geographic window on the shores of Lake Uhtjärv, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the Urvaste church and the primeval valley of Lake Uhtjärv. The window marks one of the 21 places worthy of discovery in South-Estonia.

  • Ruins

Ruins of Vastseliina Bishop’s Castle

Vastseliina Episcopal Castle is a place worth discovering in South Estonia for its 14th-century castle ruins, interactive activities, and interesting history as a sacred site. In the Middle Ages, the castle was a famous pilgrimage destination: by order of Pope Innocent VI, pilgrims who saw the miraculous cross in the castle chapel received a release from penance activities imposed on them for 1 year and 40 days. During the Northern War, the castle was destroyed by Peter I's troops, and only its ruins remain. The sacred pilgrimage site on the ruins of the former church is marked by a large cross, benches, and a sound installation featuring spiritual music. Nowadays, you can also visit the Vastseliina Episcopal Castle Medieval Experience Center and the Episcopal Castle Pilgrimage House. The castle ruins, sacred site, and experience center can be visited independently or with a guide upon prior arrangement. Additionally, refreshments and medieval feasts for groups are offered at the former Piiri Tavern.

  • Churches

St Bartholomew’s Church in Palamuse

Palamuse Church is one of the oldest medieval churches in northern Tartu County. The church was first mentioned in documents in 1234. As a fortress church, it provided protection from invaders during wars. There is a burial ground around the church, which has two preserved headstones. The unique wooden sculptures on the altar and pulpit date back to 1696. There is a dry-stone painting on the eastern outer wall. Services are held in the church every Sunday at 11 a.m. The church also organises concerts and plays.

  • Churches

EELC Roosa Jacob’s Church

The legend speaks about the owner of Roosa manor, who had promised to build a church if he is saved from a shipwreck. When he had happily escaped the sea, he fulfilled his promise and the first church was built in Roosa in 1735.The current church is the third one in Roosa, built in 1893.The massive quarrystone walls have round-headed windows and brick ornaments, the tower has four sides and triangular gables. The altar-piece is a copy of the ″Christ on the Cross” from the St. Mary's Church in Rõuge and the organ is the first church organ the Kriisa brothers built in 1900.

  • Churches

Valga Jaani (St John’s) Church

Jaani Church, located right in the heart of the city, was built in 1816 according to the design of architect Christoph Haberland and it is the only church in Estonia with an oval ground plan. The unique organ has been preserved in its original shape and it is the only instrument built by Friedrich Ladegast still left in Estonia.Interesting facts: * the organ is one of the 200 best organs in Europe; * music can be heard from the church’s bell tower at midday and midnight.

  • Churches

Pindi church in Lasva

Pindi Jaani (St. John's) church was built according to the plan by architect J. G. Mühlhausen. The church was consecrated in 1881. A massive tower stands In the western part of the rectangular church, the vestry is in the north-eastern part. The altarpiece is a copy of the one in Rõuge church, "Jesus on the cross" by Rudolf von zur Mühlen. The new organ built by the brothers Kriisa was consecrated in 1903.The grave and monument of Captain Friedrich Vreeman (1894–1919), who was killed in the Estonian War of Independence, are in the church cemetery. Service is held Sundays at 10.30.Useful information: Laine Villenthal, who was the first woman ordained as a minister in Estonia, served in Pindi church until 2004.