Talinn, Riga, and Vilnius have been settlements since time immemorial and have been capitals since their larger political units were founded in the 13th/14th centuries, and vied for the position of the 3rd largest city in 18th century Russia. In contrast, Helsinki wasn’t even chartered until 1550.
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Author Archives: Matthew
The Danish Town
Though there had been estonians building is the area since there were Estonians, Tallinn didn’t really get going until the Danish built a castle on top of the fortifications of Toompea hill. Hence the name “taalilinna”, the Danish town.
The medievalwalls and building are some of teh best oreserves in Europe, despite the bombing during World War II.
The fancy Dutch windmill
The Dutch style windmill, where just the blade pivots, is more complex than the post windmills where the whole thing turns, so having one is s ign that the community is doing well. This point in Saaremaa had up to 9 windmills at one point, but there are only 5 now.
