Toompea Castle is a historic fortification located on Toompea hill in the center of Tallinn, Estonia. The site has served as a seat of power for various rulers, including the Danish, the Teutonic Order, the Swedish Empire, and the Russian Empire, and currently houses the Riigikogu, the parliament of the Republic of Estonia.
The complex features a unique architectural blend, combining the medieval stone walls and towers of the original fortress with a prominent pink Baroque palace facade constructed during the late 18th century. The most iconic element is the Pikk Hermann tower, which stands at the southwest corner and serves as a national symbol, with the Estonian flag raised atop it daily.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Limestone, Brick, Stucco
- Civilization
- Estonian/Danish/German
- Accessibility
- Limited; guided tours available for the parliament building
- Date(s)
- 1227-1229 (initial), 1767-1773 (palace)
- Condition
- Well-preserved, active government building
- Original Function
- Fortress
- Key Figures
- Catherine the Great, Valdemar II of Denmark
Danish and Teutonic Origins
13th-14th CenturyThe first stone castle was built by the Danish following their conquest of Tallinn in 1227. It was later expanded by the Teutonic Order, who constructed the massive defensive walls and towers that define the medieval perimeter.
Swedish and Russian Rule
16th-18th CenturyDuring the Swedish period, the castle served as a regional administrative center. Following the Great Northern War, the Russian Empire took control, and in the 1760s, Empress Catherine the Great ordered the construction of a Baroque palace on the site of the eastern wing.
Parliamentary Era
1920-PresentWith the independence of Estonia in 1918, the castle was repurposed to house the national parliament. A new chamber was built within the courtyard of the medieval fortress, blending modern legislative needs with the historic structure.