Narva Straddling Two Worlds
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Estonia: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Estonia, a small Baltic country, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and culture waiting to be explored. Let's embark on a journey through this captivating land, starting with its national parks.
Vilsandi National Park, nestled on the western island of Saaremaa, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Seals, seabirds, and rare orchids thrive in this pristine ecosystem. Alutaguse National Park, located two hours from Tallinn and one hour from Narva, offers a different kind of adventure, with opportunities for bear watching and overnight stays in rustic wooden huts. More information about these national parks can be found at Estonian Nature Parks.
Tallinn, the capital city, transports you back in time to the era of the Hanseatic League. Its Old Town is well-preserved, with traditional establishments like "Olde Hanse" featuring staff in medieval costumes. The Town Hall Square, part of the European Green Capital Program 2023, has been transformed, featuring wooden benches, greenery, and trees.
Narva, a city with a rich history and a predominantly Russian population, offers a unique blend of Soviet and Estonian influences. The Bridge of Friendship, though interrupted by tank traps, still stands, and the cityscape bears traces of its Soviet past, with Cyrillic inscriptions on building facades and a relief commemorating a workers' strike in 1872. The decommissioned Kreenholm Factory, once a significant textile producer, is another testament to Narva's industrial past.
Allan Kaldoja, a lawyer, entrepreneur, and theater founder from Narva, has made a significant impact on the city's cultural scene. His theater, located in a former industrial plant, offers thought-provoking performances. One such production is "Internal Climate," a play that condenses the memories of former factory workers.
Public transport in Tallinn is free for residents and affordable for visitors, while trains between cities are operated by Elron and long-distance buses by Lux Express. Direct flights from Berlin to Tallinn are available with Air Baltic and Ryanair, making it easy to reach this captivating destination.
Tallinn is also rich in museums. From Katherine Castle to the postmodern Kumu Art Museum, the Seaplane Harbour Museum, and specialized museums like the one dedicated to international knightly orders and two KGB museums, there's something for everyone.
In recent times, Narva has been at the forefront of a different kind of battle - a propaganda one. Russia celebrates its victory over fascism on May 9 with military music, while a giant poster at the Hermann Castle displays a collage of Putin and Hitler's faces with the caption "Putler. War Criminal."
In the early months following the outbreak of the Ukraine war, the border crossing was one of the few bottlenecks through which displaced Ukrainians could exit Russia. This small Baltic country has shown its resilience and compassion in the face of adversity.
For more information about Tallinn and Narva, including their UNESCO-protected Old Town, museums, and tips, visit Visit Tallinn and Visit Narva respectively. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a culture enthusiast, Estonia promises an unforgettable journey.
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