Melodies from the Past: The Tallinn Song Festival Grounds
Upon embarking from the Old City Harbor, our first footsteps resonated with melodies of the past as we approached the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. Established in 1869, these grounds are a testament to Estonia’s deep-rooted musical culture, with the Song Festival held every five years as its crown jewel, attracting upwards of 25,000 performers.
Stepping into Medieval Times: The Old Town Tour
Transported to a time capsule, Tallinn’s Old Town showcases one of the best-preserved medieval atmospheres in Europe. The tour unwrapped at Palace Square, adorned by the domes of Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the blush walls of the Estonian Parliament building, which also masks the majestic Toompea Castle.
But the chronicles didn’t end there. St. Mary’s Cathedral stood tall, whispering tales from the 13th century, making it Tallinn’s oldest church. While the exterior echoed with the pleas of Russian women seeking alms, the cathedral’s interiors held remnants of eras gone by – from unique engravings to the sounds of a pipe organ that dates back to 1878, considered one of Europe’s finest.
A Bird’s Eye View: Toompea Hill and Beyond
The trails then led us to Toompea Hill, presenting a picture-postcard view of Old Town’s iconic red roofs and soaring spires. Winding down through the serpentine Long and Short Leg Streets, we were greeted by the inviting ambiance of Town Hall Square and savored a sumptuous beef roast at Restaurant Maikrahv.
Discoveries and Delicacies: A Leisurely Stroll
Our palate satiated; we meandered through the knit shops aligning the Tallinn town wall. The plethora of souvenirs was tantalizing, but a cozy wool hat-scarf ensemble won our hearts. With treasured memories and souvenirs, we reunited with our tour group, setting our compass back to the ship.
Conclusion
Estonia’s Tallinn, with its mix of history and charm, weaves a tapestry of stories waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the melodies from the past or the silent walls of the medieval town, every corner has a story to tell.
Tips for Travelers:
- Packing: Carry essentials like water, maps, and comfortable footwear. Consider packing a hat or umbrella for unexpected weather changes.
- Safety: Stay on the designated paths, respect local traditions, and avoid isolated places.
- Local Etiquette: Be respectful when visiting religious sites. If you come across locals begging, it’s customary in Estonia to either provide alms or politely decline.
Tour Name: Tallinn & Old Town Walking Tour
Cruise Line/Ship: Norwegian Cruise Lines / Norwegian Sun
Tour Operator: Unknown
Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours
© OceansAfoot