Peapiiskopi Kirik

Peapiiskopi Kirik, officially St. Mary's Cathedral (Toomkirik), is the oldest church in Tallinn, dating back to the 13th century. Located on Toompea hill, it serves as the seat of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church. The church's exterior is a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles, with a distinctive 69-meter Baroque spire added in 1779. Inside, visitors find a serene white interior with ornate wooden altarpieces, carved pews, and an impressive collection of heraldic shields and epitaphs from the 17th–19th centuries. The floor is paved with medieval tombstones, and the walls bear the coats of arms of Baltic German nobility. A highlight is the 1684 organ, still used for concerts. The church offers a quiet contrast to the bustling square outside, and its tower provides sweeping views over Tallinn's red rooftops and the Gulf of Finland. The atmosphere is contemplative, with soft light filtering through tall windows.

Don't miss

• Climb the tower for panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town and the Baltic Sea
• See the medieval tombstones and heraldic shields on the walls and floor
• Admire the Baroque altarpiece and the 1684 organ
• Visit the crypt, which contains tombs of notable Estonian figures
• Attend a Sunday service or an organ concert for the full acoustic experience

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Know before you go

• Dress modestly; shoulders and knees covered are appreciated.
• Photography is allowed inside without flash. No photos during services.
• Check the schedule for organ concerts, they are a highlight.
• The tower may close in bad weather or during winter; confirm ahead.

A bit of history

Built on the site of an earlier wooden church, the cathedral was first mentioned in 1233. It was rebuilt in the 14th century after a fire and later remodeled in the Baroque style. It survived the Reformation and Soviet era, remaining a Lutheran place of worship.