The Toompood is located on the first floor of the University of Tartu Museum. The museum shop sells books about Toomemäe and Tartu Cathedral, the University of Tartu today and in the past, and scientific achievements, in addition to souvenirs, jewelry, and much more. Design and science enthusiasts can find lovely souvenirs in the museum shop as keepsakes for themselves or gifts for loved ones. The selection includes jewelry created by local designers, toys, and souvenirs with a message suitable for culture enthusiasts. For those with a sweet tooth, we offer handmade chocolate and honey. There are souvenirs in every price range, and many of the products are Estonian.
Kalevipoeg is the Estonian national epic about the adventures of the hero called Kalevipoeg.In 1950, the memorial Kalevipoeg, which was dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the War of Independence, was taken down by the occupying power. The monument was built by Amandus Adamson. In 1952, the monument to Kreutzwald, the Father of Song, was erected at the same location. Discussions over restoring the memorial Kalevipoeg were held since 1988, but in 2002, when the exhibition ‘Kalevipoeg in Sculpture’ took place, the restoration proptly started. Sculptor Ekke Väli modelled the momorial on the basis of photos, and he was consulted by Endel Taniloo, a senior sculptor, during the restoration of Kalevipoeg.
Jumalamägi (God's Hill) is an ancient sacred place of the Setos. According to legend, this is where God welcomes souls onto his carriage to take them to heaven.In the past, the hill was a place of only local significance and it seemed like it was a thing of the past, but in 2007, the village elder and the locals once again started using it as a sacred place. A local sculptor R. Veeber built the Peko statue on the hill.People visit Peko* – fertility god of the Setos – before major undertakings for luck and success. They also make sacrifices there. Locals see the statue as a place of positive energy, which is why it is perfect for charging one's batteries.
The former Mattiesen Print House on the corner of Ülikooli and Vallikraavi Streets is also a noteworthy architectural monument in the centre of Tartu. Printer Carl Gottlieb Mattiesen bought the plot in 1848 and the print shop of the University of Tartu was moved into the wooden house. A stone annex was added to the building later.The building was redesigned in 1997 (architect M Raid) into a café-museum, bookstore and pub. Wilde Pub and Café operated in the building for a long time. A group of bronze sculptures depicting Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde was opened in front of the building in 1999 (authors M Karmin and T Trummal).
The Tartu Art Museum is located in one of the most special buildings in the Town Hall Square – the leaning house of Tartu. This prominent building, built in 1793, leans 5.8 degrees, which is even more than Italy's famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Tartu Art Museum is the heart of Estonian contemporary art, showcasing 20th and 21st-century art, modern themes, and creative thinking. Here are the works of Estonia's top artists as well as exhibitions featuring international artists. The museum builds bridges between the past and present, addressing important societal issues and providing a thought-provoking experience to visitors of all ages. The museum also hosts guided tours, virtual tours, and workshops that make the art experience even more meaningful and vibrant. The building also houses a museum shop where art books, work by local artists, and souvenirs can be found. Tartu Art Museum is an ideal place to visit for both art enthusiasts and those who want to enjoy beautiful architecture and an inspirational environment. Walk in, and see what's on display right now!
Võru Town Gallery focuses on promoting art and cultural activities in Võru, on introducing professional art and organising exhibitions and exhibition-sales.For expositions the gallery mostly uses the balcony lobby on the 1st floor of the Võru Community Centre, called Kannel, and the room in front of the small hall. There are also exhibitions in the lobby of the ground floor. All rooms are equipped with modern spotlights that move along buses.
Angel Bridge is one of Tartu's symbols and a popular place among both locals and tourists. It offers a beautiful view of Toomemäe Park. Angel Bridge, designed by Johann Wilhelm Krause, was completed in 1838. On the bridge is a bas-relief of the first rector of the University of Tartu, Georg Friedrich Parrot, with the inscription "Otium reficit vires" or "Rest restores strength." There are several legends surrounding the bridge. For example, it is believed that if you take a deep breath before stepping on the bridge, run across the bridge, and make a wish, your wish will come true. Angel Bridge is also a great place to take romantic pictures!
The new monument to Villem Reiman (1861-1917) was opened in 2004 and its author is Mati Varik.Villem Reiman was a pastor and a cultural persona who fought for the independence of the Estonian people as a figurehead of the Estonian national movement.