{"id":3612,"date":"2017-05-29T01:29:13","date_gmt":"2017-05-28T17:29:13","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/thegallivantpost.com\/?p=3612"},"modified":"2017-05-29T18:06:34","modified_gmt":"2017-05-29T10:06:34","slug":"tallinn-a-sojourn-to-a-medieval-gem-in-the-baltics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thegallivantpost.com\/tallinn-a-sojourn-to-a-medieval-gem-in-the-baltics\/","title":{"rendered":"Tallinn : A sojourn to a Medieval Gem in the Baltics"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/p>\n
If you are not familiar with Tallinn, or Estonia, you are in good company. Prior to my trip, I barely had a clue about this Baltic country. All I knew was that it is situated just across from Helsinki and is somewhat like the Silicon Valley of Europe. \u00a0Many friends were worried about abduction, organized gangs, organ harvesting, war and more. All I can say is, their fears were unfounded.<\/p>\n
Tallinn, the largest city and the capital of Estonia, lies on the southern Coast of Finland, a short flight or ferry ride from Helsinki. It\u2019s a fascinating mix of medieval charm, trendy eateries, picturesque wooden residences and vivacious atmospheres. The city delicately balances the new and modern amidst the old fortresses that withstood centuries.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Tallinn Old Town is one of the most well preserved medieval town centers in Europe. Walking around this Baltic gem, which is essentially a walled fortress, it feels like I\u2019ve been transported back in time. I can envision horse-drawn carriages, carts and merchants displaying their wares along the cobbled streets. I was particularly drawn to this alleyway which leads to Aida Street (the backstage of a Theatre), where they hold open air plays during the warmer months. It reminded me of a scene in the iconic David Bowie film, Labyrinth. \u00a0I was half expecting goblins and creatures jumping out of the wall and taking me through a concealed door to meet the Goblin King.<\/p>\n In place of goblins are actually souvenir shops, craft shops, and cafes aplenty around the Old Town. The wonderfully preserved architecture found on majas <\/em>(houses) is extremely detailed as well, and you will pass many majas as you walk around the Old Town. Make sure you stop and look closely enough as some of the buildings still retain the levers and pulleys used in the past to hoist bulky and heavy items up to the upper levels, or transport them down. Most majas <\/em>are painted in lively colors, giving a bright and cheerful feel to the area.<\/p>\n There are plenty to keep you occupied around this charming Old Town, If you like to people watch, there are many cafes offering a variety of cuisines to suit different palates around Freedom Square with alfresco seating.<\/p>\n
\nTallinn Old Town<\/strong><\/p>\n