Northern Estonia – Modern and historical

Northern Estonia is the most modern, most urban and most densely populated region of Estonia, but at the same time, it is an exceptionally versatile and part of Estonia, full of contrasts. This is also the area of the largest untouched bogs and forests, enchanting manor buildings, ruins of castles of the medieval Orders and fortified churches. The closer you get to the eastern border, the more you will encounter traces of Russia culture, which in turn add colour to the spirit of the place and the surroundings.

Ida-Virumaa is one of the most beautiful corners of Estonian as far as nature is concerned. Nowhere else can we find such an open view of the sea from the limestone cliffs and beautiful beaches covered with white sand, such an ancient marsh landscape, or such a mighty and majestic river as Narva River. The local sight – Northern Estonian limestone cliffs – can be considered one of the symbols of Estonia. The most spectacular view of this can be enjoyed on Ontika cliffs where the extraordinary vista both of the limestone precipice and the sea as well as the unique stretch of ancient forest below the cliffs is visible from the height of more than 56 metres.

The position of the border city of Narva on the border between two countries is the most characteristic feature of the city both in the past as well as today. Here on the banks of the Narva River lay the border separating two civilizations ever since the Middle Ages, separating the European, Catholic West from the Slavic, Orthodox East. But the border is not only a separator. It is also a point of contact, the place where two cultural worlds meet and influence each other.

Tallinn, the European-style capital of Estonia, is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. The Old Town of Tallinn belongs to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites and bears special value due to its wholly preserved medieval atmosphere and structure. In other Northern European cities, these characteristics have almost completely disappeared by now. The period of the middle ages from the beginning of the 15^th century until the middle of the 16^th century can be considered to be the golden age in the development of Tallinn. Tallinn belonged to the Hanseatic League and had an influential role in the Baltic Sea region. Economic glory brought about the need to fortify the city and created favourable conditions for the active creation of architectural and artistic values.

There are various fascinating events taking place in the Old Town of Tallinn throughout the year. Ancient traditions, customs and methods of work come to life between the walls of the old town. Authentic handicrafts can be viewed at galleries and workshops and some places also allow you to try your hand at preparing objects yourself.