Karl Kuenzel
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Old Town Tallinn & Rakvere
It was a step back into the past with this trip to the capital of Estonia and the old medieval fortress.
Rakvere is a 14th century castle, which is located approx 1,5hr drive from Tallinn. It was built by the warrior monks of the Livonian Order in 1346. It is a steep climb up a flight of steps from the parking lot to the castle gate.
Here we were able to tour the castle and view its catapults and working cannon. Explore the expansive dungeons including its Torture and Hell Chambers, complete with examples of medieval forms of torture. A brief re-enactment of an historic battle makes one feel like they are there. Then we were ushered into a large room, which was the inn of the castle and were served a multi-course meal typical of what people ate some 700 years ago.
Following the castle experience, we returned to Tallinn and were given a guided walking tour of Toompea Hill, where there is a massive, medieval stone castle that today is home to Estonia's parliament.
Next was a stroll to Palace Square, the location of the Alexeander Nevsky Cathedral. The Russian Orthodox basilica, complete with golden crosses and black onion-shaped domes - was built in the late 19th century during a period of "Russification." The church is named after the prince who defeated the crusading Teutonic Knights in 1242's "Battle on the Ice," fought on the frozen surface of nearby Lake Peipus. Going inside the cathedral one is able to view numerous icons and mosaics lining its walls.
Next we went to the Dome Church. It is the oldest church in Tallinn- first mentioned in a letter to the Pope dated 1233 - St. Mary's Cathedral has served as the burial site for nobility since the 15th century. The current façade dates from the 15th century while its ornate copper spire was added 200 years later.
Following the walking tour, we made our way back to the port. On my first visit to Tallinn, some years ago, one could get off the ship in the port and stepping ashore would find numerous stores. It was here that I was able to purchase several imitation Fabergé eggs, at more reasonable prices. In the intervening years, a new port has been built and it is no longer possible to walk from the stores directly to the ship.