Võru Bank Building

On Lake Peipsi, massive fog can sometimes rise in winter. The shore edge disappears with the fog and when it gets dark, the light beam of the lighthouse does not pass through it. It is said that years ago, locals rang church bells to help the fishermen find their way to the shore.The reinforced concrete beacon was built in 1938. A beacon is a lighthouse with a visibility of less than 10 nautical miles. The height of the beacon is 11 metres and the height of the light is 14 metres.In spring, the famous icebergs of Lake Peipus can be seen here. This is because of the stone bridge created by the hero of the Estonian national epic, Kalevipoeg.

The Kodavere Heritage Center in Tartu County breathes new life into the historical Pala Town Hall, which has been the heart of the local community for years. The center showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Peipsi region and is a place where old stories, languages, and traditions are revitalized. Visitors can gain a comprehensive overview of the history of Kodavere parish municipalities and town halls, and view the intriguing photo exhibition "People of Kodavere Parish in Oskar Tõrva's Glass Negatives," which reveals the everyday and festive life of rural areas a century ago. Additionally, they can admire the handicraft exhibition "Kodavere Kupuliud," highlighting the skills of local craftsmen and folk aesthetics. A separate display is dedicated to the Kodavere dialect, an essential part of the region's identity. The center also features a memorial room for poet Anna Haava and an exhibit "Song Festivals in Pala 100 Years Ago." Guided tours and heritage culture workshops are offered by reservation, suitable for both school groups and adults.

Jakob Hurt (22.07.1839-13.01.1907) was an Estonian folklorist and linguist. He studied theology in the University of Tartu and gained his Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Helsinki in 1886. He played the leading role in many major events of the Estonian national movements.The monument to Jakob Hurt (1839-1907) was completed in 1994. Its authors are J Soans and R Tomingas.

Otepää irradiates good energy! The monument that celebrates the existence of positive energy fields was opened in Mäe Street on 1 October 1992.The entire field is surrounded by benches and the location of these as well as the column itself was selected by psychics. The energy column is the symbol which reminds us that in this rapidly changing world, humans are a part of nature and everything is based on the rules of nature that rely on balance and co-dependency.

Tartu Old Believers Prayer House is a small and cosy house of God in the hall under the tower of a large and impressive prayer house destroyed by bombing during the war. This is the only part of the house the congregation has managed to restore by today. You can also see icons from the 19th century and the works of local 20th century icon painters in the Tartu Old Believers Prayer House.Service in Russian takes place at 10 a.m. on Sundays.

In the heart of Tartu’s Old Town, right next to Town Hall Square, stands the Leaning House, often affectionately called “The Leaning Tower of Tartu” by locals. The house was built in 1793 along the edge of the medieval city wall. The side facing the river rests on the old wall’s stone foundation, while the other side sits on softer ground. This unique construction has caused the building to slowly but noticeably lean, making it one of Tartu’s most visually distinctive landmarks today. From 1879, the building housed a pharmacy for many years, where, in the early 20th century, a young Oskar Luts worked. He went on to become a famous Estonian writer. Today, the Leaning House is home to the Tartu Art Museum, where visitors can explore works by both Estonian and international artists, participate in educational programs, and enjoy inspiring art experiences. Tartu's Leaning House is listed in the national register of cultural monuments, making it both a historical and cultural gem that combines the rich history of Tartu’s Old Town with vibrant contemporary art.

Katre Arula`s Handicraft Workshop, where you will find crafter Katre Arula, is located in the courtyard of Põltsamaa Castle. In the workshop's store, you will find high-quality unique original creations and genuine Estonian handicraft items picked personally by Katre. The selection includes: clothes, bags, scarves, belts, gloves, jewellery, candles, ceramics, household textiles and small sweet knick-knacks.Groups can book an introduction of Katre's creation and work. She will demonstrate the items and explain their origin. She also makes custom-made items according to the client's specification.It is possible to book workshops.

In the summer of 2020, the Otepää Central Square and Flag Square dedicated to the Estonian tricolour got a new look. The Central Square is illustrated by Bruno Kadak's bronze sculpture – the fountain 'Fun Ott'.There is a well-known belief around the world that throwing a coin in a fountain brings happiness, but when coming to the Otepää fountain, you have to scratch the bear's rear paw.The Flag Square has one of the highest flagpoles in Estonia. Next to the Estonian flagstaff are pavilions and information stands telling the story of the flag. The community garden with a children's playground offers leisure opportunities for both adults and children.Come to Otepää!