The Medieval Theme Park and Pilgrim House at Vastseliina Episcopal Castle is a unique destination in South Estonia, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the medieval world. This place combines the ruins of a 14th-century castle, a sanctuary, interactive exhibitions, and activities suitable for history buffs, families, and pilgrims alike. At our interactive museum, you can explore the medieval-themed exhibition, learn about the castle's history, discover knights' equipment and Hanseatic merchants' wares, visit an alchemist's corner, and participate in various workshops. There is a children's room and the Castle Tavern, open in summer, which serves dishes inspired by the Middle Ages.
Tartu Art House is the home of the Tartu Artists’ Union and the heart of the city's art scene. It's not just a gallery room; it's a vibrant meeting place where creativity, diverse perspectives, and the spirit of an era meet. Art House is an important cultural node that brings together Estonian and international artists – known top performers, bold new talents, and, of course, all art lovers – on a regular basis. In three distinctive galleries, exhibitions alternate frequently, offering viewers something new and inspiring at every visit. Various forms of contemporary art are represented. Curators' offices, discussions, and meetings with artists help to gain a deeper understanding of the work on display and bring art closer to visitors for a more personal experience. All exhibitions and excursions are free for visitors. It is also possible to participate in practical workshops. Tartu Art House is waiting for you to discover Estonian art; a visit can show you a new perspective.
Põltsamaa Castle has been an important site throughout the centuries and carries a distinguished history – founded in 1272 on the riverbank, it was the residence of Magnus, the King of Livonia, and later evolved into a magnificent Rococo palace. Wars and fires left the castle in ruins, but now it has come back to life and is waiting for you to visit! Today, the castle offers visitors plenty of excitement. First and foremost, it is worth climbing to the viewing platform of the seven-story castle tower, where a captivating view of the city unfolds in every season. The tower is crowned by a restored historical dome, which is unique in all of Estonia. The church, located within the complex, is built directly into the castle's fortification walls and tower, and is open daily during the summer. The convent and gatehouse feature a modern exhibition that tells the colorful story of the castle and the town of Põltsamaa. In the castle courtyard, craft workshops await, where you can watch the work of masters or purchase something interesting yourself. Culinary experiences are offered by the restaurant Oberpahlen, where history and excellent food come together. Discover Põltsamaa Castle – a place where history comes to life!
Karilatsi Open Air Museum is a unique open air museum in Southern Estonia which provides an overview of the life of Vana-Võromaa County about 100 years ago.On the 5-hectare territory of the museum, you can experience moments from the school life and farm work of that time and get to know everyday simple tools. Workshops and lessons on traditions and customs: smoke sauna customs, Võromaa wedding customs, celebrations, folk calendar year, and many other experience programmes (e.g. court session in Võru language, old school lesson). You can see a school, a court, and an almshouse with their smaller buildings, a granary, a barn-dwelling, a cottar farm, and a Dutch windmill. Agricultural machinery and vehicles are also on display. Ticket sales to the museum end one hour before closing.
Hellenurme Mill Museum in Southern Estonia is the last operational historical watermill in Estonia and one of the few examples of a water-powered mill as industrial heritage in the Nordic countries. Visiting the mill feels like a trip back in time. Visitors can see century-old equipment across four floors of the mill, from the turbine to the milling machines and millstones, which still grind rye into bread flour. In the bread house, the mill hostess offers guests traditional Estonian rye bread made on-site and shares stories that bring the everyday life of centuries past to life. The large mill building of Hellenurme Manor, built in 1880 in Tartu County, hides surprises at every step. In addition to the working mill, guests can enjoy workshops and meals in the bread house. It is possible to stay overnight in the freshly renovated mill chambers, which offer views of the river and lake. Visitors can admire the lake's beauty and the surrounding nature.Here, you can also enjoy cultural events and celebrate festive moments with friends, family, or colleagues.
The museum is located at the historical Ülenurme Manor and introduces the development of the Estonian agriculture and rural life.In addition to exhibitions, museum visitors can participate in museum classes meant for children and adults, participate in master classes or cooking workshops, enjoy the nice surroundings and meet farm animals. The museum ponies take children for a ride. There are several traditional, but also innovative family events at the museum.It is possible to rent the museum's rooms and territory for events.
Peipsiveere Samovar House is a small museum in the Old Believers' village of Varnja that introduces visitors to the world of samovars and tea culture along Lake Peipsi. The private collection, accumulated over decades, contains more than 200 diverse samovars. From simple tin samovars to rare ones with elaborate engravings, reflecting the skills and traditions of masters from different eras. The exhibition, located in an authentic Old Believers' house, offers visitors insight into why the samovar was more than just a kettle for centuries. Stories reveal the origins of samovars, manufacturing techniques, usage methods, different design types, and tea-drinking traditions in the communities along the lake. Every guest can taste genuine samovar tea and the famous Ivan chai, and try traditional boiled sugar with the tea, an integral part of Old Believers' tea culture. If desired, one can also explore handmade samovar accessories and hear stories from the hostess of Mesi Tare about preparing, serving, and respectfully preserving tea.
The Art Studio sells great Estonian oil paintings and graphic art, high-class leather and wood goods and high temperature ceramics by Aivar Rumvolt. Please do not hesitate to call on us, if you need a special gift for your guest. The Avatud Ateljee Studio organises different courses: you are welcome to sign up for pottery, calligraphy, binding or leatherwork classes. In addition the studio organises poetry reading nights and meetings with artists. Groups can also visit Aivar Rumvolt’s pottery shop in Kubja by previous appointment. In summer there are workshops both for grown-ups and the young.