Estonian History Museum - Great Guild Hall, Tallinn (must see)

The Great Guild Hall is a wonderful old Gothic style structure that is located in the Old Town part of Tallinn. It is not very far from Town Hall, and is just a couple of blocks south of St. Olaf’s Church. You can find it directly across from the Holy Spirit Church. It was built over a three year period that started in 1407, so this building has been around for a long time. It was first used as a meeting place for Tallinn’s Merchant’s Union. During medieval times, local craft guilds controlled most aspects of business and commerce throughout this part of the world. The merchants of Tallinn banded together and became quite wealthy in their own right. In modern times, there are several old rooms which have been renovated and opened to the general public.

The Hall now houses the Estonian History Museum, which brings to life over eleven thousand years of history of this part of the world. The displayed objects include archeological pieces, archived materials, ethnography, photography, glass and porcelain.

The Great Guild Hall is open to the general public daily 10 -18 (2 May - 30 Sep) and Tue - Sun 10–18 (1 Oct - 30 Apr). Admission is €5.