Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ings—were burned out; only the church was rebuilt (€3.50, Wed-Sun 10:00-17:00, closed
Mon-Tue; organ concerts Sat and Sun at 16:00 are included in admission).
• At the corner opposite the church, climb uphill along the steep, cobbled, Lühike Jalg
(“Short Leg Lane”), home to a few quality craft shops. Pass through the giant stone tower,
noticing the original oak door—one of two gates through the wall separating the two cit-
ies. This passage is still the ritual meeting point of the mayor and prime minister whenever
there is an important agreement between town and country.
Climb up through the gate and pop out on the street above. Turn left up the street, then
hook left for a good view of the fortifications around the city.
City Walls:
The imposing city wall once had 46 towers—the stout, round tower is
nicknamed “Kiek in de Kök.” (While fun to say, it means “Peek in the Kitchen” in Low
German.) It was situated so that “peek” is exactly what guards could do. It's now a small
museum with cannons and other relics from the 16th-century Livonian wars.
Above you is the so-called “Danish King's Garden.” Tallinn is famous among Danes
as the birthplace of their flag. According to legend, the Danes were losing a battle here.
Suddenly, a white cross fell from heaven and landed in a pool of blood. The Danes were
inspired and went on to win. To this day, their flag is a white cross on a red background.
