Panoramic Medieval Views of Old Town Tallinn from Toompea Hill

Toompea means Cathedral Hill and it is an oblong-shaped limestone hill located in Tallinn Old Town. This is the perfect place to go if you want to see panoramic medieval views of the city. There are several viewing points from the top of the hill. Find the Kohtoutsa and Patkuli viewing platforms for the best sweeping views and great picture taking opportunities. Trust me, it is worth the climb!

Toompea Hill

There is a fairytale story behind the existence of Toompea but to summarise this in my own words: Toompea is what I would like to call the birthplace of Tallinn, which of course during that time had a totally different name. Before Tallinn became Tallinn, she was called Reval, and I am sure before Reval, she was called something else.

I wanted to sit down at this cafe terrace beside the Kahtoutsa viewing platform but there were no people. Why is it that we are drawn to cafes and restaurants where there are guests inside? The psychology of man to belong and to be with others collectively, if not distantly.

Map of Old Town Tallinn. Toompea is the left oblong shaped area.

The seat of Estonian government and Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) are located here as well, at the Toompea Castle on Lossi Plats (see #24 on the map). The building is open to the public during week days free of charge (advanced booking only). If you schedule in advance, you might just be able to witness some parliament proceedings. Now that is just so cool. Go to the Tallinn tourist office for more information.

From the Patkuli viewing platform I believe (see the uppermost #23 on the map above).

Tallin's town wall towers and St. Olaf's Church (the church tower on the right).

Very typical Tallinn: red and orange roofs.

This bird was not afraid of humans!

The Dome Church (Cathedral of St. Mary the Virgin) circa 1219, perhaps the oldest church in Tallinn.

There are cool outdoor terraces here beside the viewing platforms.

There is art in junk vintage furniture.

Kahtoutsa viewing platform (see the right side #23 on the map).

Artisan shop selling local souvenirs and Estonian handicrafts on Kiriku Plats (Church Square).

The Russian Orthodox Church Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the most beautiful buildings in the country.

Toompea Castle, now the seat of the Estonian government on Lossi Plats (Castle Square).

Estonian flag flying proudly.

Medieval city walls of Tallinn.

Kiek in de Kok, a medieval defense and watch tower.

Travel Period: May 2013
Destination: Tallinn, Estonia

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