Tartu's Gothic-style St. John's Church dates back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Estonia. It is known for its unique terracotta sculptures, which are considered rare in all of Europe. The church once had over 1,000 handmade terracotta statues; about 200 have survived. Each sculpture is different, which has led to speculation that they may depict Tartu's former inhabitants or other important people. The tower of St. John's Church offers a wonderful view of the entire historic old town of Tartu. It houses two bronze bells, called Peter and Paul. On the last Sunday of every month, the church holds a service in English!
Families with children are particularly welcome in the Lake Pühajärv Park as there are many opportunities to feed ducks and other birds when walking on the lakeshore. There is an exercise track by the northern part of the park. This is also the place where you will find the beach with a beach house, cafés, arbours and boat hire.The park used to be a part of the Pühajärv Manor Park and it was designed as a walking forest with paths already in the 19th century. The park is mainly a naturally grown forest.
An exciting hiking trail runs along the banks of the Koiva River, which borders Estonia and Latvia. You can discover points important to both countries' cultural heritage along the trail! The trail is 22 kilometers long, so there and back comes to 44 kilometers. The trail introduces old Estonians' way of life and offers the opportunity to get acquainted with historical heritage in the middle of nature. The trail includes, for example, Taheva Manor, a windmill, the ruins of a hay barn, and ancient trees. There are several campfire sites and camping sites. The trail is signposted and equipped with information boards in Estonian, Latvian, and English, and it can also be completed by bike.
Lake Kubija is in the Kubija district on the outskirts of Võru. There are changing rooms, bathrooms, a boat landing and a diving tower on the beach. A life guard also works on the beach in summer.Kubija Hotel and Nature Spa and Kubija campsite are nearby, and in summer there are moped lanes. The surrounding pine forests provide ski tracks in winter.The lake covers more than 15 hectares but is never more than 5 metres deep. There is good fishing here, with common catches including bream, perch and pike, and occasionally also pike perch and bleak.
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.
Tellingumäe's 25-meter-high observation tower offers a beautiful view of the winding Mustjõgi gorges and the hilly landscape typical of South Estonia. Latvia can be seen in the distance, as nearby the Mustjõe River joins the Koiva (Gauja) River on the Estonian-Latvian border. Tellingumäe observation tower is a great place to observe nature and birds. Several rare bird species can be found here. The tower has an RMK campfire site and marked cycling and hiking trails of different lengths, like the Estonian-Latvian joint cultural heritage trail and the Koiva Cycling Trail.
The northern shore of Lake Kuremaa is home to the only beach in Jõgeva County manned by lifeguards. Here you will find a 250-metre stretch of golden sand, aquabikes and boat hire, a beachfront cafe, a playground, areas for ball games, a caravan park and more. You can also camp here. The swimming area is marked by buoys. The water temperature is measured constantly, with information provided on special stands.
St. Paul's Church in Tartu is unique because it is the only Art Nouveau church in Estonia. The church features a national romantic and geometric design. The church is also famous for its two steel bells, which were made in 1922 in Germany. The glass-domed bell tower offers a stunning view of the city of Tartu. It can be reached by stairs, and on the way to the tower, you can see a small gallery that explains the church's history. A visit to the church tower is available for an additional fee. The church has a columbarium, a crypt, and a bookstore. You can also order a church tour, a private organ concert, or catering from the church kitchen.