Toompea Castle is an impressive, fully-restored site. The castle complex is of great significance as it houses the Estonian Parliament Building, named “Riigikogu”, in modern times.
The magnificent castle complex is open to the public throughout the year. With guided tours of the Parliament building available, visitors are also able to tour the entire site and experience its wealth of history and culture. Are you thinking about an adventurous trip to see the castle site and catch a glimpse of the Estonian Parliament staff at work? Read on for more information and our helpful tips!
Table of Contents
The Parliament Building at the castle site is the only Expressionist style parliament structure in the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Toompea Castle Located?
The castle is situated on Toompea Hill in the city of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.
When was Toompea Castle Built? Who Build It?
The original castle was built in the 13th and 14th centuries by the Danes. The Parliament building was constructed in the 20th century.
When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?
During the warmer seasons in the region, spring and fall.
What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?
Toompea Castle is close to the Adamson-Eric Museum, the Monument to Estonia’s Independence from the Soviet Union, and the Linda Monument, all within a short walking distance from the castle.
FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS
Early History
Toompea Castle is located on Toompea Hill. Popular folklore explains that this hill was built by the Estonian mythology figure, Linda, who constructed it from the ground up using only her two hands!
The castle itself started as a fort in the ninth century, when the Danish Crusaders conquered the region in 1219. Subsequently, further reconstruction work of the castle was executed by the Order of the Brethren of the Sword from 1227, during their rule. Some ten years after this, the castle site was again controlled by the Danes until it became the property of the Teutonic Order in 1346, who remained the owners during most of the Middle Ages.
Under the control of the religious Teutonic Order, the castle site structures were built in a style similar to cathedral buildings. A church with four towers, a residence for the Knights, and a chapter house were added to the castle. Turbulent times befell the castle’s region until Estonia became part of the Swedish Dominion after 1561. The castle was transformed into a regal center of politics for the region.
The Russian Empire gained control of the region in 1710. Major construction efforts converted the castle into a majestic palace complex with a massive and gorgeously designed Baroque and Neoclassical style wing added to the castle compound. During Russian rule, a structure for storing archives was built near to the castle complex and a public park was developed.
Estonia declared independence in 1918 and a building was constructed at the castle site to serve as the seat of the Estonian Parliament.
Revisit More Historic Places Below or Read Further
Current Times
Today, the marvelous castle complex is a fully restored site and open to visitors. The castle site has housed the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) ever since the Parliament building was completed in 1922. The Parliament Building boasts an Expressionist interior with a traditional exterior.
The tallest of the castle towers is named “Tall Hermann”, where the Estonian flag flies proudly from sunrise to sunset each day. It is possible to climb up the stairs of the tower and experience a breath-taking view from above! Visitors are also permitted to view the activity in the Parliament building from an overlooking balcony area.
Interesting Toompea Castle Facts
- The Parliament Building at the castle site is the only Expressionist style parliament structure in the world!
- Catherine the Great, the Russian Empress, ordered the construction of the Russian addition to Toompea Castle. The building was completed in 1773.
- Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament building) was designed by two respected architects – Eugen Habermann and Herbert Johanson.
Visiting Toompea Castle – Tips and Tricks
Take a guided tour of the castle site or if you’d prefer, take your time strolling around at your leisure. The castle compound is a true blend of several different architectural styles and with its long history of different owners, it is a display of the cultural development of Estonia over the centuries. Toompea Castle is a true representation of the vast history and rich culture of Estonia through centuries of its development. It is a magnificent and opulent display of various architectural styles, seamlessly blending and showcasing the castle site’s existence.Check out our helpful tips below as you plan your trip!
How to get to Toompea Castle?
Estonia’s International Airport is located in the city of Tallinn. Rent a car at the airport and arrive in around two minutes. You could choose to take a taxi and drive from Tallinn at a cost of about €4.5 ($5 USD). Alternatively, a walk to the castle site takes only around fifteen minutes from the airport.
There are two bus options available at a cost of between €1-€3 ($1-$3 USD) and the travel time is around 11-12 minutes from Tallinn to the castle.
Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips
Information was checked & updated on October 29, 2023.
Ticket prices are €10.5 ($12 USD) per adult; family tour packages cost €20 ($23 USD). Tours of the parliament building are free. Guided tours in English are available on Fridays every 15 minutes, starting at 10am.
Group tours are available and pricing depends on the number of members in the group. Visiting hours are Monday to Thursday between 10am-4pm and Friday between 10am-3pm.
How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?
Plan for around 2 hours to explore the full castle site.
Up to Date Information
For up to date ticket prices and visiting hours visit the official website: https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/toompea-castle/
Some words of advice and tips:
- Check the weather forecast for the date/s you will be visiting the castle. Be sure to dress appropriately as part of your sightseeing experience will be outside.
- Remember to check the opening hours and access dates when planning your trip to avoid disappointment.
- COVID: Check for any regulations, opening hours, and restrictions on the official website, as rules have been changed and adapted several times since the pandemic started.
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