Museums, Tallinn County

St. Nicholas's Museum-Concert Hall has three of the four most important Medieval works of art in Estonia in all of on display.

Thru the centuries the building was renovationed a number of times and now includes things like the late Gothic St. Anthony’s chapel and the Renaissance foyer.

St. Nicholas was the only church in Tallinn’s downtown which remained untouched by the destruction of icons by the Lutheran Reformation in 1523. History has it that a member of the congregation poured molten lead into the locks of the church so the raging hordes could not get in and destry anything.

Estonia has a turbulent history, having been occupied twice in the recent past - once, briefly, by the Nazis and then for 40 years by the Soviet Union. The country declared independence in 1991 after 4 years of brave and peaceful protest by the people. In fact, the country is still in the process of recovery from those years of Soviet rule.

The story is emotional and inspiring and it is told in gripping detail at this highly recommended museum. Just 10 EEKs (50p) or free with Tallinn Card (see 'General Tips')

The theatre and music museum of Tallinn was founded already in 1924. In permanent collection there are more than 500 instruments, including some rare findings.Unfortunately the museum is covered very minimally and texts are mostly in Estonian. I think you really have to be enthusiastic about music and theatre to get something out of this museum. Otherwise I recommend you to skip the museum. Admission fee is 20 kroons. The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday 10.00-18.00.

Kiek in de Kök (Peep into Kitchen) in one of the most magnificent Towers of Tallinn. It was built in the late 15 th century. Kiek in de Kök is about 50 metres high and its wall thickness is 4 metres. There are six floors in this tower. This tower used to be a defensive tower and the first floor was used as an ammunition storage. Next four floors were cannon floors with 27 places for cannons.

The tower was renovated in 1958-1965 and it serves nowadays as a museum devoted to the history of Tallinn fortifications, with all exhibits labelled in English. The museum is closed on Mondays. Entrance fee is 50 kroons.

Built inside a 14th century merchant's house, this museum is a must-do activity.

The displays are fascinating and are all clearly labelled in English language.

The museums takes us right up to the present day with an exhibition on the top floor covering the occupation and telling the fascinating story of Estonia's move to independence from the USSR.

We watched a video presentation about the 'Singing Revolution' and the 'Baltic Chain 'alongside some Estonian visitors who were literally weeping with emotion.

A wonderful experience.

I can not give justice to this museum. It was only recently opened (June 2003) and guides you through the occupation of Estonia from 1939 to 1991 when they got independence. The price of a ticket is so cheap, about 60cent. The museum has many interesting artifacts including old cars, radios and even a phone box! The cafe is also very good. The building is very interesting architectually, it has a sloping floor in the cafe part.

There are televisions that play videos on each time point in Estonia and there is an English language option. I'd highly recommend a visit to the musuem to really get an understanding of Estonian history.

One of the best museums I have ever visited. It tells the story of Estonia's occupation and struggle for independance! (1940 to 1991)

Its very modern, well presented and extremely informative. Full of soviet stuff from radios to magazines and also 2 cars. If you had enough coffee you could watch the videos all day long. Ask the friendly staff and you can also watch the movies in a small cinema.

And at 5Kroons (30cents) this is not to be missed.

Exhibiting the history of shipping and fishing in Estonia. The collection of ships is unique. The museum is housed in a cannon tower, Fat Margaret, which was built from 1510-31. You can also enjoy one of the best views of old town and the harbour from the tower roof. Fat Margaret was built to protect the side of the town near the see and make a memorable impression on visitors who journeyed into port.