Map of Estonia in Russian. Republic of Estonia - general information

General information

Official name — Republic of Estonia. The state is located in Northern Europe. The area is 45,226 km2. Population - 1,294,236 people. (as of 2012). Official language- Estonian. The capital is Tallinn. The monetary unit is the euro.

The state is located on the northeastern coast of the Baltic Sea. In the east it borders with Russia (border length 290 km), in the south with Latvia (267 km). In the west, Estonia is washed Baltic Sea, in the north - the Gulf of Finland. The total length of the border is 557 km, the length of the coastline is 1,393 km. Most of the country's territory is occupied by a moraine plain. In the southeastern part there is a strip of hilly hills. Clint is common on the northern coast of Estonia.

The climate of Estonia is mild and humid. The alternation of sea and continental air, the constant influence of cyclones make the weather very unstable. The weather is especially changeable in spring and autumn. According to climatic conditions, the region directly influenced by the Baltic Sea and inland Estonia are distinguished. The coast has mild winters and moderately warm summers; inland areas have cooler winters and warmer summers than the coast. On the island of Vilsandi, for example, average monthly temperature air in February is -3-4°C, in Tartu -7°C. In July the temperature is respectively +16 +17°C. Precipitation averages 550-650 mm, about 700 mm at higher elevations, and in some places less than 500 mm on the coast. Snow cover lasts from 70 to 130 days a year.

Story

The ancestors of modern Estonians were tribes, mainly Finno-Ugric, who lived in the Eastern Baltic almost 2000 years ago. In German chronicles, the term "Estland" meant "Eastern Land". In Russian chronicles, the tribes of this area were most often called “Chud”.

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, was first mentioned in 1154 in Arabic geography under the Slavic name Kolyvan, in the 13th century. a German chronicle calls the same city the Scandinavian word “Lindanise”, and the Estonian name “Tallinn” (which means “Danish city”) first appears in 1536. The future capital of the Estonian Republic was called Revel by the Swedes and Germans, and this name remained until 1917

The entire history of Estonia tells how the fate of this land and the people inhabiting it was decided by other countries and peoples. Although the ancestors of today's Estonians cannot be denied belligerence - they fought back against the Russian princes and managed to defeat the crusaders from the Order of the Sword in 1211

However, the Danes and the knightly Teutonic Order, which consisted mainly of German knights, conquered the Estonian tribes. The uprisings were brutally suppressed, and by the beginning of the 16th century. Serfdom was in effect in rural areas. The main cities of Estonia, Revel (Tallinn), Dorpat (Tartu), Pernau (Pärnu), became members of the Hanseatic League, in which German merchants ruled everything.

, (Muscovite Kingdom) and (Rzeczpospolita) alternately fought among themselves for Estonian lands until 1721, when, according to the Treaty of Nystadt, Sweden ceded to the Russian Empire the territory of present-day Estonia, on which the Revel and Livland provinces were formed. Peter I recognized the German, or, as they were also called in Russia, “Baltic Sea” nobles as the local aristocracy. The Estonians practically did not have their own aristocracy.

After the October Socialist Revolution of 1917, Estonia ceased to be part of Russia. In 1920, the Yuriev Peace Treaty was concluded between the RSFSR and the Republic of Estonia, in which both parties officially recognized each other. This was the first experience of state independence for Estonia. However, in 1940, the USSR sent troops into Estonia, elections were held in the country to the legislative body of the Riigikogu, which then decided to form the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic and the Declaration of Accession to the USSR. On August 6, 1940, the ESSR became part of Soviet Union. Estonian historians often claim that the election results were falsified and call the actions of the USSR “occupation.”

In 1941, German troops entered Estonia, and by the end of 1944, Soviet troops occupied the last stronghold of the Nazis - the island of Saaremaa. In World War II, Estonians fought on both sides of the front - both in the ranks of the Soviet army and in Wehrmacht units.

After World War II, Estonia again became Soviet territory. Only in 1991, after the liquidation of the USSR, Estonia again gained independence and in the same year became a full member of the UN. In 2004, Estonia became a member of NATO and the European Union.

Sights of Estonia

Estonia has managed to carefully preserve the heritage of centuries. Here you can easily feel like a medieval city dweller and feel not only the atmosphere, but even the taste of a bygone time - for example, in a restaurant of medieval cuisine in Tallinn. And on the Town Hall Square of the Estonian capital, one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe still operates for almost 600 years (with short interruptions).

In this pharmacy-museum you can not only view the exhibition dedicated to the history of medicine and pharmacy, but also receive treatment with ancient medicines. Perhaps it will even be very tasty - after all, since the 15th century. In the Town Hall pharmacy they prescribe... marzipan for headaches or nervous disorders! Which, as Estonians are sure, was invented here. Although the French, Spaniards and Italians claim the authorship of the delicacy now beloved by humanity (and not without reason!), only Estonians indicate the exact location of the event, which is joyful for those with a sweet tooth.

The preservation of medieval Tallinn makes it one of the best tourist centers in Europe for real history lovers. The historical part of Tallinn is included by UNESCO in the list of monuments of world significance.

The historical center of Tallinn - the Old Town - is divided into Vyshgorod, located on the Toompea hill, where the Dome Cathedral stands (XIII century, rebuilt until the 18th century), and the Lower Town, which is located southeast. Sights of Tallinn often have their own personal names. Thus, the famous weather vane on the city hall is called “Old Thomas”, the fortress tower of the Vyshgorod castle is “Long Herman”, and one of the towers of the defensive structures of the Lower Town is “Fat Margaret”. The tallest of the surviving towers is called “Kik-in-de-Kök”, which means “Look into the kitchen”; from this tower it was really convenient to spy on the townspeople.

On the preserved medieval streets of Tallinn there are houses from the 14th-17th centuries, which have practically not changed their appearance. It is not surprising that one of the favorite holidays for tourists is the “Days of the Middle Ages”, which have been regularly held in Tallinn in recent years - with a carnival, a medieval fair, minstrel performances and even a “School of Knights”. For 2011, Tallinn and the Finnish city of Turku were appointed cultural capitals of Europe.

And in the city of Pärnu, a festival dedicated to the Hanseatic League has already become traditional. In 2010, Pärnu hosted the anniversary festival “XXX International Hanseatic Days”, which will bring together representatives of 150 Hanseatic cities from all over Europe.

The tourism business is one of the most successful in Estonia after the country gained independence. The number of tourists is growing despite the global economic crisis, or perhaps because of it. After all, visiting a small, cozy country on the Baltic Sea is still cheaper for tourists than a similar voyage to Western Europe.

Estonian Cuisine

Traditional Estonian cuisine was formed largely under the influence of German and Swedish culinary traditions, and consists mainly of simple and satisfying “peasant” dishes based on pork, potatoes, vegetables, a variety of cereals, fish (herring is especially popular) and bread products . A distinctive feature is the widespread use of meat by-products (blood, liver) and a variety of dairy dishes - there are more than 20 dairy soups alone.

Soups themselves are a fairly common dish - there are, for example, soup with barley and potatoes, dumplings, peas and pearl barley, bread soup, blueberry soup, herring soup with potatoes, and even beer soup. Seasonings and herbs are used extremely poorly, and in small quantities and in strictly defined dishes: dill - in herring, marjoram - in blood sausages, caraway seeds - in cottage cheese, parsley, celery - in meat soups (not all). Among the flavoring seasonings, in addition to milk, cream and sour cream in their pure form, they use “kastmed” - milk and milk-sour cream sauces that accompany almost every Estonian dish.

The most popular are "syyr" - a special dish made from cottage cheese, smoked trout "suitsukala", pork legs with peas, blood sausage "evereverst", "mulgi puder", pancakes with blood "vere pakeogid", dumplings made from barley flour, "mulgikapsas" - specially stewed pork with barley and sauerkraut, “piparkook”, rutabaga porridge “kaalikapuder”, rutabaga-potato porridge “kaalikakartulipuder”, boiled meat with vegetables, pea-buckwheat porridge “hernetatrapuder”, soup with beer, blueberry soup with dumplings, a variety of cheeses and jelly.

In Estonia they make amazingly delicious chocolate with nuts, unusual candies with mint, liqueur, coffee, and nut fillings, excellent cakes and all sorts of other sweets.

The national drink is undoubtedly beer - light "Saku" and darker "Saare" from the island of Saaremaa; honey beer and mulled wine "Höegwein" are also original products.

Monuments World Heritage UNESCO in Estonia

Tallinn's historical center (Old Town) with architectural monuments XIII - XIX centuries;

Struve geodetic arc (19th century, passes through the territory of 10 countries).

Estonia on the map

Republic, state in East Europe, washed by the Gulf of Finland and Riga of the Baltic Sea. Name after the ancient name of the indigenous population of Estia (presumably balt. "living by the water") , which is first mentioned by Tacitus, I V. Already in work IX V. The country of the Aestians is called Estland. Apparently, initially this ethnonym referred to the Prussians, then to others balt. tribes, and later moved to the Baltic states. Finns - Estonians.

Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. - M: AST. Pospelov E.M. 2001.

Estonia

(Eesti Vabariik), state in the NE. Europe, on the Baltic Sea coast, between Finnish And Gulf of Riga and Lake Peipus Pl. 45.1 thousand km², capital Tallinn ; other major cities: Tartu , Narva , Kohtla-Jarve , Parnu . Population 1.4 million people. (2001): Estonians 64%, Russians 29%, Ukrainians 2.6%, Belarusians 1.6%. The non-Estonian population dominates in the NE. E., in particular in the city of Narva (96%). Official language – Estonian. B.h. believers - Lutherans. By the beginning of the 13th century. On the territory of Estonian there were 8 large lands inhabited by Estonians (in Rus' they were called Chud). In the XIII–XVI centuries. - under German rule (called Livonia ), then Sweden. Since 1721, part of Russia. On February 24 (national holiday), 1918, the independence of Estonia was proclaimed. Since July 1940, it has been part of the USSR as the Estonian SSR. Since 1991 – independent Republic of Estonia . Parliament (Sejm) elects the president.
Moraine plain with isolated hilly hills. (Suur-Munamägi town, 318 m). The banks are heavily indented; zap. - lowland, northern – steep, abruptly drop to the sea, forming a ledge Glint , cut by rivers with waterfalls and rapids. Over 1500 islands (9.2% area); Moonsundsky arch. (the largest islands are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Muhu, Vormsi). The climate is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. Winters are mild, summers are moderately warm. The main rivers are Pärnu, Emajõgi, Narva . Lakes (mostly glacial) and reservoirs. occupy 4.8% of the area. Unique lake Kaali of meteorite origin on the island. Saaremaa. Swamps – 22% area. Forests (mainly coniferous) - over 1/3 square. Reserves: Viidumäe , Vilsandi, Matsalu, Nigula, Endla; 15 landscape reserves, national a park Lohemaa. Historical and architectural monuments in the cities of Tallinn, Valga, Viljandi , Võru, Kohtla-Järve, Narva, Narva-Joesuu, Otepää , Paide, Parnu , Rakvere , Suure-Jaani, Tartu , Haapsalu. Academy of Sciences, universities (including universities in Tartu and 2 in Tallinn, a conservatory, a rural economic academy). Annual singing (Singing Field in Tartu) and sports (sailing regatta center in Pirite) festivals. 2.7 million tourists (1997). Resorts: Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva-Joesuu, Kuressaare (climatic and mud); resort areas and recreation areas: Võru, Värska (Värska mineral water, healing mud), Laulasmaa, Otepää, Kabli, Klooga ( sandy beaches, dunes), Aegviidu (skiing). Oil shale mining and processing; machinery (radio and electrical engineering, instruments, ship repair); metal, chemical, timber and wood processing, furniture, cellulose paper, text, food industry; production of building materials. Molly-meat live, bacon pork and poultry (1/3 of products are exported). Grains and fodder crops, potatoes, vegetables, fruits, and berries are grown. Fish (herring, Baltic herring, sprat). Animal husbandry (silver fox, arctic fox, nutria, etc.). Artist crafts: making carpets, knitted items, fabrics, processing wood, leather, metal, glass, ceramics, amber. Dense transport net. Court (on the Emajõgi river). Seaport – Tallinn; ferry connections with Helsinki and Stockholm. Intl. airport. Cash unit – Estonian kroon.

Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Ekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of academician. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .

Republic of Estonia, a state in the northwestern part of Europe. Estonia is washed by the Gulf of Finland from the north, the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga from the west, borders Latvia in the south and Russia in the east. The length of the coastline is 3794 km. Estonia includes 1,521 islands in the Baltic Sea with a total area of ​​4.2 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.
NATURE
Terrain. Estonia is located within the East European Plain. The surface height gradually increases from the coasts of the Gulf of Riga and the Gulf of Finland in the eastern and southeastern directions. Average surface heights are 50 m above sea level. Western regions and islands have average altitudes of less than 20 m above sea level. In post-glacial times, there is a stable rise of the surface at a rate of approx. 1.5 m per 100 years, the coastal zone is shallowing, some islands have connected with each other or with the mainland.
In western Estonia, marine, abrasive, moraine and swampy plains are common. The activity of Pleistocene glaciers played a particularly important role in the formation of the relief of Estonia. In the central and southern regions, along with moraine plains, terminal moraine ridges, chains of eskers and drumlin ridges can be traced. In the southeast, outcrops of Devonian sandstones are dominated by hilly-moraine terrain with the Haanja Hills, where the highest point of the country is located - Mount Suur-Munamägi (318 m above sea level). To the south of it, an outwash plain can be traced, formed as a result of the activity of melted glacial waters. In the north, Ordovician and Silurian limestone bedrocks come to the surface, exposed in steep ledges (clints) along the entire coast of the Gulf of Finland.
Climate Estonia is transitional from maritime to continental. Winter is relatively mild, summer is moderately warm. Average July temperature approx. 16° C on the coast and approx. 17°C in the interior of the country; The average February temperature ranges from –4°C on Saaremaa to –8°C in Narva, in the northeast. Annual precipitation varies from 510 mm to western islands up to 740 mm in the most elevated areas of the southeast.
Soils. Thanks to the diversity of parent rocks, hydrological regimes and relief conditions, a variegated soil cover has formed in Estonia. Thus, in the south, sod-podzolic and sod-gley soils predominate, in the northern half - typical sod-carbonate, leached sod-carbonate and podzolized sod-carbonate soils, alternating with areas of podzolic, podzolic-bog and bog soils. In the far north and northeast there are areas of podzolic rocky soils. In general, wetlands occupy more than half of Estonia's area, and true bogs occupy approx. 22%.
Water resources. Estonia has a dense river network. The rivers of northern and western Estonia (Narva, Pirita, Kazari, Pärnu, etc.) flow directly into the bays of the Baltic Sea, and the rivers of eastern Estonia flow into inland reservoirs: Lake Võrtsjärv in the south (Põltsamaa river) and Peipus (Emayõgi river) ) and Pskovskoe in the east. The most long river– Pärnu is 144 km long and flows into the Gulf of Riga in the Baltic Sea. The most abundant rivers are the Narva, through which the flow of Lake Peipsi flows into the Gulf of Finland, and the Emajõgi. Only the Emajõgi river is navigable, and below the city of Tartu. During spring floods, the water level in rivers rises significantly (up to 5 m).
There are more than 1,150 lakes and over 250 artificial ponds in Estonia. The lakes are mainly of glacial origin and occupy approx. 4.8% of the territory. The country's largest lake, Chudskoye (or Peipsi), is located in the east and forms a natural and historical border with Russia. The area of ​​Lake Peipus is 3555 sq. km, of which 1616 sq. km belong to Estonia. The largest inland body of water in Estonia is Lake. Võrtsjärv – has an area of ​​266 sq. km.
Vegetable world. Estonia is located in a zone of mixed coniferous-deciduous forests. Few indigenous forests remain. The most fertile soddy-carbonate soils, on which broad-leaved forests once grew, are now occupied by arable land. In general, under the forests there is approx. 48% of the country's area. The most typical forest-forming species are Scots pine, Norway spruce, warty and downy birch, aspen, as well as oak, maple, ash, elm, and linden. The undergrowth includes mountain ash, bird cherry, and willow. Less commonly, mainly in the west, yew berry, wild apple tree, Scandinavian rowan and aria, blackthorn, and hawthorn are found in the undergrowth.
Forests are most widespread in the east of the country - in central and southern Estonia, where they are represented by spruce forests and mixed spruce-broadleaf forests. Pine forests grow on sandy soils in the southeast of the country. In western Estonia large areas occupy unique landscapes - a combination of dry meadows with areas of sparse forests. Meadow vegetation is widespread in the north-west and north of the country. The low-lying, periodically flooded coastal strip is occupied by coastal meadows. Specific flora that tolerate soil salinity are common here.
The territory of Estonia is very swampy. Swamps (mostly lowland) are common in the valleys of the Pärnu, Emajõgi, Põltsamaa, Pedya rivers, along the shores of lakes Peipus and Pskov. Raised bogs are confined to the main watershed of Estonia. To the north of Lake Peipsi, swampy forests are widespread.
The flora of Estonia includes 1,560 species of flowering plants, gymnosperms and ferns. Of these, approximately three quarters of the species are concentrated in the western coastal regions and islands. The flora of mosses (507 species), lichens (786 species), mushrooms (about 2500 species), and algae (more than 1700 species) is distinguished by a great diversity of species.
Animal world. Species diversity wild fauna not much - ok. 60 species of mammals. The most numerous species are moose (about 7,000 individuals), roe deer (43,000), hares, and wild boars (11,000). In the 1950s–1960s, the deer, red deer, and raccoon dog were introduced. The largest forests in many parts of Estonia are home to brown bears ( OK. 800 individuals) and lynx (approx. 1000 individuals). The forests are also home to foxes, pine martens, badgers, and squirrels. Wood ferret, ermine, weasel are common, and European mink and otter are common along the banks of reservoirs. The hedgehog, shrew, and mole are very common.
Coastal waters abound with game animals such as the ringed seal (in the Gulf of Riga and the West Estonian archipelago) and the long-snouted seal (in the Gulf of Finland).
The most diverse avifauna. It numbers 331 species, of which 207 species breed permanently in Estonia (about 60 live all year round). The most numerous are capercaillie and hazel grouse (in coniferous forests), woodcock (in swamps), black grouse (in forest clearings), coot, bittern, rail, warblers, mallards and other ducks (on lakes and sea ​​coast), as well as owls, woodpeckers, larks, and kestrels. Rare bird species such as the white-tailed eagle, golden eagle, short-eared snake eagle, greater and lesser spotted eagle, osprey, white and black stork, and gray crane are protected. The common eider, tufted duck, shoveler, merganser, scoter, gray goose, and gulls nest on the islands of the western archipelago. Birds are especially numerous during spring and autumn mass flights to summer nesting sites or wintering in tropical countries.
There are 3 species of lizards and 2 species of snakes, including the common viper.
More than 70 species of fish live in fresh reservoirs and coastal waters (carp, salmon, smelt, vendace, whitefish, bream, roach, perch, pike perch, burbot, trout, crucian carp, tench, carp, herring, sprat, cod, flounder, whitefish, eel, etc.). Many of them are of commercial importance.
In some areas of Estonia there is an unfavorable environmental situation. In the northeast of the country, where thermal power plants operating on oil shale operate, the air is polluted with sulfur dioxide. Small bodies of water located in agricultural areas are polluted by animal waste products. Coastal waters are also polluted in many places.
In general, Estonia is characterized by a careful attitude towards nature. In order to study it, preserve the gene pool and protect landscapes, several national parks And state reserves and reserves. In total, approximately 10% of Estonia's territory is protected. In 1995, parliament adopted a law on the sustainable development of the country, and in 1996 the government approved a strategy for the protection environment.
POPULATION
As of July 2003, the population of Estonia was 1408.56 thousand people.
Second World War and the subsequent decades of Soviet rule had a strong impact on demographic processes. During the war and in the immediate post-war years, Estonia lost a quarter of its population, mainly as a result of deportations to other areas of the Soviet Union and emigration. The main source of population growth in the post-war decades was the mass immigration of non-Estonians, a process encouraged by the centralized system of government and a planned economy with the aim of increasing the labor force and the Sovietization of Estonia. From 1945 to 1970, the birth rate fell steadily, but by July 2003 it had stabilized at 9.24 per 1,000 inhabitants. The death rate was 13.42 per 1000 inhabitants. The infant mortality rate in 2003 was approx. 12.03 per 1000 births. The emigration rate is estimated at - 0.71% per 1000 inhabitants. The average life expectancy for women is 76.57 years, for men - 64.36 years. In 2003, approximately 15.8% of the population was under 15 years of age, 15.4% was over 65 years of age, and 68.8% were in the age group of 15 to 65 years.
The greatest concentration of the population is observed in the urbanized industrial areas of the country, with almost a third of the population living in Tallinn and its environs, 10% in the industrial centers of Narva and Kohtla-Jarve in the north-east of the country. In the southeast is the large university city of Tartu, and in the southwest is the resort town of Pärnu. There is a constant outflow of population from rural areas.
Ethnic composition. In 1945, the share of Estonians in the republic’s population reached 93%; by 1989 it had dropped to 62%. In the last decade, the share of Estonians has been growing (65.3% in 2000), while the share of Russians has been decreasing (28.1%). Among the national minorities, Ukrainians (2.5%), Belarusians (1.5%), Finns (1%), others (1.6%) stand out. Estonians are evenly distributed throughout the country. Russians and other non-Estonians are concentrated mainly in industrial cities such as Tallinn, Narva, Kohtla-Jarve, Sillamae.
Languages. The official language is Estonian, which belongs to the Baltic-Finnish branch of the Finno-Ugric family of languages. The language of communication of the majority of non-Estonians is Russian.
Religion. In Soviet Estonia, the authorities actively interfered in church affairs, the activities of religious organizations were extremely limited, although services were held in some churches, including Orthodox ones. The Pyukhtitsa Assumption Convent, founded in 1898, operated. From 1946 to 1982, the publication and import of religious literature was strictly prohibited. There are currently no restrictions on religious activities. Among the believers, Lutherans predominate (80–85%), there are also Orthodox (including Estonians), Baptists, Methodists, Seventh-day Adventists, Catholics, and Pentecostals. In 1993, a special law was adopted on the activities of churches and parishes. Currently, 8 churches, 8 parish unions and 66 private parishes are registered in Estonia. In 1993, the activities of the Estonian Orthodox Church were restored, which since 1996 has been subordinate to the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The Russian Orthodox Church, subordinate to the Moscow Patriarchate, also operates. The relationship between the two Orthodox churches are one of the reasons complicating the Estonian-Russian political dialogue.
Cities. In 2000, three cities in Estonia had a population of over 50 thousand people: Tallinn (400.4 thousand), Tartu (101.2), Narva (68.7). Tallinn – political, economic and Cultural Center countries. Tartu is a university center where almost half of Estonia's students study. Narva and Kohtla-Jarve are industrial cities in the northeast, specializing in the extraction and processing of oil shale. In the southwest, on the coast of the Gulf of Riga, is Pärnu, a port and popular resort city. In 1934, only 30% of the population of Estonia lived in cities; by 1953, due to the accelerated pace of industrialization in the USSR, 53% of the population was concentrated in them. Currently, 67.1% of the country's population lives in Estonian cities (2000 data).
STATE STRUCTURE
Public administration. Estonia had its first experience of a parliamentary political system in the 1920s and early 1930s. This was followed by six years of a closed conservative dictatorship (1934–1940) and 50 years of one-party rule within the USSR.
Since June 28, 1992, a new constitution adopted by referendum has been in force in Estonia. Currently, Estonia is a parliamentary republic. Legislative power is vested in a unicameral parliament, the Riigikogu (State Assembly), consisting of 101 deputies who are elected by universal secret ballot for a term of four years. All Estonian citizens who have reached the age of 18 have the right to vote. Parliament develops laws, ratifies and denounces international treaties, elects the president of the country, gives the candidate for prime minister the authority to form the government of the country, adopts the state budget, and, on the proposal of the president of the country, appoints such senior officials as the chairman of the State Court and (on the proposal of the latter) members of this court, the Chancellor of Justice, the State Comptroller, the chairman of the board and members of the board of the Bank of Estonia, the Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces.
The head of state - the president - is elected by parliament, by a qualified majority (2/3) of votes, for a term of 5 years. If three rounds of voting fail, the president is elected by the Electoral College. According to the constitution, the president represents the state at the international level, proposes a candidacy for the prime minister, can influence the legislative activities of parliament, and proposes candidates for the highest posts of the state apparatus to the parliament.
Executive power belongs to the government, headed by the prime minister, who is appointed by the president after approval of his candidacy by a majority of members of parliament.
Judicial system. The Constitution provides for an independent judicial system, including three instances: county, city and administrative courts (first instance); district courts (second instance) and the State Court (highest authority). Legal proceedings are carried out in the courts of first instance; County courts act primarily as appellate courts. The State Court is vested with cassation functions and is a court of constitutional review. Direct constitutional supervision is carried out by the Judicial Collegium of Constitutional Supervision of the State Court. The Chancellor of Justice performs the function of general supervision over the compliance of legal acts of legislative and executive authorities, as well as local authorities, with the constitution and other laws of the country.
The Minister of Justice supervises the activities of the prosecutor's office, which oversees the legality of registration and preliminary investigation of crimes, the legality of the activities of the police in solving crimes, the legality of deprivation of liberty, and the presentation of public prosecution.
Local control. Administratively, the territory of Estonia is divided into 15 counties - maakondas (divided into volosts) and 6 cities of central subordination. Local councils in cities and counties are elected by popular vote for three-year terms. The prerogative of these councils is local administration and tax collection. In October 1993, the first local elections were held after the restoration of independence. Only Estonian citizens had the right to vote. In Tallinn, candidates of two moderate Russian parties received 42% of parliamentary seats, which roughly corresponds to the share of Russians in the city's population.
Political parties and movements. In the 1920s and 1930s, five main political parties were created: the Peasant Party and the Union of Agrarians (these parties were respectively on the right and in the center of the parliamentary spectrum); People's Party and Labor Party (both centrist); Social Democratic Party (left). The initial process of party formation was marred by the failed communist putsch on December 1, 1924. During the conservative dictatorship of Konstantin Päts (1934–1940), all political parties were prohibited. Under Soviet rule, the only legal political organization became the Estonian Communist Party as part of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU).
In 1987, during the era of perestroika and glasnost, the formation of new parties and political movements began. In 1988–1991, mass political movements began to play a particularly important role in the political process: the Estonian People's Front (a centrist political organization that demanded first autonomy and then independence from the USSR) and the Committee of Estonian Citizens, which organized the election of delegates to the Congress of Non-Communists of Estonia to restore independence in based on the principle of legal continuity of the first republic.
The parliament, elected on September 20, 1992, was represented by nine parties and electoral alliances, including the Fatherland Union (30 of 101 seats), the Safe House (17 seats), the Popular Front (15 seats), the Moderates (Social Democrats and members of the Rural Center Party - 12 seats) and the Independence Party (11 seats). In March 1995, opposition parties won the parliamentary elections: the Coalition Party (41 seats out of 101), the Reform Party (19 seats) and the Estonian Center Party (16 seats). For the first time, the party of the Russian population, Our Home – Estonia, received representation in parliament (6 seats).
In 2000, the following major political parties and associations operated in Estonia: Center Party of Estonia, Reform Party, Fatherland Union, Moderate Party, Coalition Party of Estonia (liquidated in 2001), United People's Party of Estonia, Estonian People's Union. The vast majority of them are represented in the country's parliament. In 2001, a new large party, the Republic, was created.
Police and military forces. Until 1940, Estonia had an effective police system, a small but well-trained army (16 thousand people) and a civil guard of 60 thousand people. All these forces were disbanded after the annexation of the country by the Soviet Union, and their command staff were repressed.
In the fall of 1991, after regaining independence, Estonia began creating an internal security and defense system. The constitution provides for military service, but also includes alternative service for persons who refuse to serve in the army for religious or other reasons. Estonia has created a land army, a naval coast guard, an air defense force, a maritime border service, and a security service (internal and border). Military expenses amount to approx. 2% of the budget. Estonia actively participates in peacekeeping activities of the UN and regional organizations. In 1994, Estonia joined the NATO Partnership for Peace program.
Foreign policy. During the 1920s and 1930s, Estonia was a member of the League of Nations. After regaining independence in September 1991, the country became a member of the UN and OSCE. On May 13, 1993, it was admitted to the Council of Europe, and in June 1995 it signed a preliminary agreement on joining European Union(EU). The government's priority plan for the coming years is Estonia's accession to NATO.
The Republic of Estonia has close ties with the Scandinavian countries, especially Finland, and is a founding member of the Council of the Baltic States, established in 1992.
ECONOMY
By the end of the 1930s, Estonia became an industrial-agrarian country. Subsequently, already in the post-war years, the accelerated industrialization of Estonia was carried out, which was facilitated by its favorable geographical location. In the 1980s, a new large Tallinn seaport, Muuga, was built. Since the early 1990s, Estonia began to form a market economy, diversify its economy and revise its priorities foreign trade.
Estonia has the largest deposits of oil shale and phosphorites in Europe (explored reserves are estimated at 3.8 billion tons, predicted - about 6 billion tons), rich forest resources and large reserves of building materials. Shale began to be mined during the First World War. The volume of their production by 1980 increased 9 times compared to 1950 (from 3.5 million tons per year to 31.3 million tons), but by 2001 it decreased to 10 million tons. By the mid-1970s, Estonia became the world's largest shale producer, however, due to the low level of production technology, the development of their deposits was accompanied by severe environmental pollution. In the 1980s, approx. 80% of the extracted shale was used as fuel for thermal power plants and approx. 20% - in the chemical industry.
Industrial enterprises in the country are concentrated in the largest cities. Thus, mechanical engineering, metalworking and instrument making predominate in Tallinn, and light industry is developed. In Narva there is a large cotton mill (Krenholm manufactory), in Sillamäe there is a production plant rare metals(Silmet). The main fuel and energy complexes are concentrated in the cities of Kohtla-Jarve, Sillamäe and Narva. Small enterprises in the food and wood processing industries are evenly distributed throughout the country. The least industrialized areas of Estonia are two large islands in the Baltic Sea - Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, where agriculture, meat and dairy farming and fishing predominate.
National income. The growth rate of industry and agriculture in Estonia declined in the 1970s and 1980s, and by 1990 their growth had stopped altogether. In 1990, GDP amounted to 5.5 billion rubles. and continued to decline in the early 1990s. Its growth began in 1994 and reached 5.5% in 1998. The Russian financial crisis of 1998 also affected the Estonian economy. In 1999, she had to make budget cuts and largely reorient foreign trade with Russian market to EU countries. There was a recession in the economy and a decline in GDP by 1.1% in 1999. In November 1999, Estonia was admitted to the World Trade Organization. Due to the economic recovery in 2000, GDP increased by 6.4%, and the same growth is projected to continue in the coming years. The economic success achieved is partly due to the almost complete privatization of large state-owned companies.
In 2002, Estonia's GDP was estimated at 15.52 billion dollars, or 11 thousand dollars per capita. The share of agriculture in the GDP structure is 5.8%, industry – 28.6%, services – 65.6%.
Currently, employment in different sectors of the economy is distributed as follows: in the manufacturing, gas industry, energy, water supply, construction - 34.7%, in agriculture, hunting, forestry, fisheries - 7%, in the service sector - 58.3 % (including in education - 7.8%, in the government apparatus and defense - 5.6%).
Extractive industry. In addition to oil shale, peat is mined in Estonia, the industrial reserves of which amount to 1.5 billion tons. Peat is used as fuel and fertilizer in agriculture. Limestone, dolomite, sand, gravel and clay are also mined.
Energy. Estonia fully covers its energy needs from its own resources and exports excess electricity. Soviet Estonia sent a significant part of the fuel and electricity produced to Leningrad. The energy complex is based almost entirely on the use of fossil fuels. In 1999, 7782 million kWh of electricity was produced. Part of the generated electricity is exported.
Manufacturing industry. In 1988, light industry accounted for 27% of total gross output, the food industry - 24%, mechanical engineering - 15%, logging, timber processing and pulp and paper industries - 9%, chemical industry - 9%, other industries - 16%. In the early 1990s, production volume decreased, but already in the second half of the same decade its growth began, which in 1998–1999 was estimated at 5–7%. The main types of manufacturing products: ships, electric motors, excavators, chemicals, pulp, paper, furniture, building materials, appliances, textiles, clothing, footwear, food.
Agriculture. Historically, the main specialization of Estonian agriculture was meat and dairy farming.
The collectivization carried out in the late 1940s had catastrophic consequences: wealthy peasants were dispossessed and exiled to Siberia, and industry productivity dropped sharply. In the 1950s and 1960s, Estonian agriculture was largely restored. Estonia later became a kind of experimental laboratory for Soviet agriculture, especially in the area of ​​self-government. In 1977, the average size of collective or state farm land was 5178 hectares. In the mid-1970s, two-thirds of agricultural production came from livestock, one-third from grains, vegetables, and hay (with most of the grains being used as livestock feed).
Despite the measures taken, agriculture remains the most backward sector of the economy. Estonia has lost the market for agricultural products in the east, and exports of products to the west are limited by various quotas. Only a third of livestock and pig products are exported. The slow pace of privatization of agricultural land also had a negative impact on the state of the industry. By 1998, approx. 35 thousand private farms, the average farm size was 23 hectares. In the last decade there has been a reduction in the area of ​​arable land, and currently there is approx. 25%, under pastures – 11% of the country’s territory. The structure of agriculture is dominated by meat and dairy farming and bacon production. In addition, potatoes, vegetables, grains and fruit crops are grown.
Forestry and fishing industry. In Estonia, the area occupied by forests has doubled since 1940 and currently accounts for 47.8% of the territory. In 1998, roundwood, industrial timber and pulp and paper products accounted for 9% of exports.
During Soviet times, when most of the fish caught and processed was sent to the vast domestic market of the USSR, fishing occupied a more important place in the republic's economy. Due to the declining fish resources of the Baltic Sea, international quotas are now strictly observed and the annual fish catch is approx. 130 thousand tons
Transport. A dense network of roads was created in Estonia under Russian rule in the late 19th century, and then expanded in the 20th century. Currently, 29.2 thousand km of roads have a hard surface. The number of cars in personal use is rapidly increasing: if at the beginning of 1994 in Estonia there were 211 passenger cars per 1000 inhabitants, then in 1997 there were 428 cars per 1000 inhabitants.
The broad-gauge railway network has a length of 1018 km (not counting the tracks providing specialized industrial transportation), of which only 132 km of track are electrified. In 2001 Estonian railways were privatized by local and foreign capital.
On the territory of Estonia there is a gas pipeline with a length of more than 400 km, connecting the shale gas production plant in Kohtla-Jarve with Tallinn, Tartu and other cities, as well as with the Russian gas pipeline network.
Estonia has developed year-round maritime traffic. The main ports of the country: 6 ports in Tallinn, including the new cargo port of Tallinn-Muuga, Paldiski, Pärnu, Haapsalu and Kunda. Regular ferry service from Helsinki and Stockholm. The Estonian merchant fleet consists of 44 vessels with a displacement of more than 1,000 gross register tons each (total displacement of 253,460 gross register tons). Navigation opens in summer Lake Peipsi and the lower reaches of the Emajõgi River from the mouth to Tartu. In 2002, a service was opened on the route Tartu - Pskov.
Both domestic and international air services are developed. Flights to many European capitals and CIS cities operate through Tallinn Airport.
International trade. Estonia's main trading partners in the 1920s and 1930s were Germany and Great Britain. The country exported food, gasoline, wood and lumber, and imported machinery, metals, cotton, cotton fabrics and yarn. In 1990, approximately 96% of exports went to the RSFSR and other republics of the USSR and only 4% to foreign countries. 89% of imports came from Soviet republics, 11% from abroad.
At the end of the 1990s, the structure of foreign trade underwent fundamental changes. Trade turnover has been rapidly increasing in recent years. Thus, in 2000 compared to 1999, exports increased by 52%, imports by 43%. The main exports are machinery and equipment (37.4% in the 2000 export structure), wood and woodworking products (13.4%), metals and metalworking products (7.1%), textiles and textile goods (11.3% ), agricultural products (7.5%), chemical raw materials and chemical industry products (3.7%), vehicles (2.6%), mineral raw materials (2.5%). In 1999 and 2000, exports by country were distributed as follows: Finland - 23.4 and 32.4%, Sweden - 22.7 and 20.5%, Germany - 8.5 and 8.5%, Latvia - 8.3 and 7.1%, Great Britain – 5.6 and 4.4%, Denmark – 4.7 and 3.4%, Lithuania – 3.4 and 2.8%, Netherlands – 2.6 and 2.5%, Russia – 3.4 and 2.4%, Norway – 2.6 and 2.4%.
They import into Estonia machinery and equipment (38.5% of the import structure in 2000), agricultural products (8.6%), metals and metalworking industry products (8.1%), textiles and textile products (7.5%), means of transport (6.9%), chemical raw materials and chemical industry products (6.6%), mineral raw materials (6.1%), wood and wood processing industry products (1.8%). The share of the main import partners in its structure in 1999 and 2000: Finland - 26.0 and 27.4%, Sweden - 10.7 and 9.9%, Germany - 10.4 and 9.5%, Russia - 8, 0 and 8.5%, Japan – 5.4 and 6.1%, China – 1.3 and 3.6%, Italy – 3.6 and 2.9%, Latvia – 2.4 and 2.6% , Denmark – 2.8 and 2.5%, Great Britain – 2.6 and 2.3%.
Currency and money circulation. In the 1920s and 1930s, the currency of Estonia was the mark, and since 1928 the kroon. The Bank of Estonia, founded in 1919, served as the main state financial institution. In 1940, Estonian banks were nationalized, and the Soviet ruble became the means of payment. In June 1992, Estonia was the first of the former Soviet republics to introduce its own currency, the Estonian kroon.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
A characteristic feature of Estonian society for many centuries was the absence of a national aristocracy. Estonians lived in villages and farmsteads or constituted the lower classes of the urban population. Only at the end of the 19th century. the intelligentsia and middle class appeared. Until 1940, the population in Estonia was dominated by peasants.
Unions. The first trade union associations appeared in Estonia in the 1920s and 1930s, but their activities were largely regulated by the state. During the Soviet period, trade unions began to play an important role in the life of the republic, especially in organizing workers' leisure. Trade unions had a developed network of sanatoriums, holiday homes, boarding houses, and tourist centers. In the mid-1990s, the independent Confederation of Estonian Trade Unions was created in Estonia.
Religious life. In the 13th and 14th centuries, during the reign of the Danish kings and the Teutonic crusaders, Estonians were converted to Catholicism. In the 16th century Estonia (Estonia) became a Lutheran country, and the church was headed by Germans until 1918. Since the 18th century, after Estonia was included in Russia, Orthodoxy also became widespread. Since 1925, the church was separated from the state. During World War II, the church suffered large personnel losses: approximately 85% of Lutheran pastors were deported to Siberia. During Soviet times, despite official propaganda of atheism and state control, religious communities managed to survive. In the late 1980s they played a positive role in the revival of Estonian identity.
CULTURE
Estonian culture was formed under strong Scandinavian and German influence. The proximity to St. Petersburg, where many prominent Estonian cultural figures were educated, also had a great influence.
Education system. An important achievement of the first republic was the creation of a national education system, including higher education, with instruction in the Estonian language. During Soviet times, this helped Estonians avoid assimilation into the Russian-speaking population.
In 1997, 224 thousand children and adolescents were studying in primary and secondary schools in Estonia, and 18.6 thousand students were studying in vocational schools. In schools, 67% of students preferred teaching in Estonian, and 33% in Russian.
In 1998, 34.5 thousand students studied at 10 state higher education institutions in Estonia (52% of them were women). The largest and most famous universities in the country are the University of Tartu (founded in 1632 - 7.4 thousand students), Tallinn Technical University (6.8 thousand students), Tallinn Pedagogical Institute (3.1 thousand students), Estonian Agricultural Academy in Tartu (2.8 thousand students), Tallinn University of the Arts (500 thousand students) and the Estonian Academy of Music in Tallinn (500 thousand students). 80% of students studied in Estonian, the rest in Russian. Over the years of independent development, dozens of private educational institutions have appeared in the country.
Literature and art. The origins of Estonian national literature date back to the beginning of the 19th century. A significant event in the development of Estonian literature is considered to be the publication of the national epic in 1857–1861 by F. Kreutzwald Kalevipoeg (Son of Caleb). In the second half of the 19th century. poetry developed. Among the poets, the most famous were L. Koidula (who is also the founder of Estonian drama), A. Reinwald, M. Veske, M. Under and B. Alver. At the beginning of the 20th century. poet G. Suits led the cultural movement “Young Estonia”. During the Soviet period, poetry played a particularly important role (poets P.E. Rummo and J. Kaplinsky), because was less censored. In prose of the 20th century. biggest achievement is Truth and Justice A. Tammsaare (written 1926–1933) is a five-volume epic novel about the life of Estonians in the 1870s–1920s. The most famous Estonian writer is J. Cross, whose historical novels reveal the moral problems of Estonian society. During the era of glasnost, much attention began to be paid to the fate of deported Estonians. In the dramaturgy of the 1960s, the theater of the absurd, in particular the play Cinderella game P.E.Rummo.
Folklore plays an important role in the new Estonian culture. Most of the oral folklore was published at the end of the 19th century, and scientific research and analysis began at the beginning of the next century. Folklore themes inspired Estonian writers, artists, sculptors, and musicians.
Among the founders of the Estonian national visual arts include the artist J. Köhler (since 1861 - member of the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts) and sculptor A. Weizenberg, who received artistic education outside the country. Professional art training in Estonia itself became possible after the founding of the Pallas Art School in Tartu in 1919. In the 1960s, Estonian graphic artists such as T. Vint, V. Tolly and M. Leis gained recognition outside the USSR.
The Estonian tradition of song festivals—regular gatherings of choirs from all over the country to perform in Tartu and Tallinn—had both cultural and political significance. Since 1869, 22 national folk song festivals (the so-called Song Festivals) have been held; in recent decades, the number of performers reached 30 thousand people, and listeners and spectators - 200-300 thousand. Among Estonian composers of the 20th century. the most famous is E. Toobin (1905–1982). In the next generation, A. Pärt (b. 1935) is especially talented. The world-famous conductor N. Järvi (b. 1937), who actively promotes Estonian music abroad, emigrated to the USA in 1980.
Museums, libraries and science. Estonian National Museum, created in 1909 in Tartu, has a rich collection of ethnographic materials and is the largest among the country's 114 museums. In Estonia there are approx. 600 libraries. The largest of them are the Tartu University Library (5 million volumes), the National Library in Tallinn (4.1 million volumes) and the Estonian Academic Library in Tallinn (3.4 million volumes).
In the 1920s and 1930s, the country's leading scientific center was the University of Tartu, where special attention was paid to research in the fields of Estonian philology and literature, history, ethnography and medicine. During the Soviet years, the main research centers were the institutes of the Academy of Sciences of the Estonian SSR in Tallinn and Tartu. Currently, the Academy of Sciences has been reorganized into a personal academy, and its institutes have been transferred to universities.
Mass media. In 1930, 276 newspapers and magazines were published in Estonia; by 1980, their number had decreased to 148. In 1990, censorship of printed publications and the media was abolished. In modern Estonia, of the 15 daily newspapers (11 in Estonian), the most popular are Postimees (The Postman, published in Tartu since 1891), Eesti Päävaleht (Estonian Daily Newspaper, published in Tallinn since 1905) and Ykhtulekht (Evening Newspaper, published in Tallinn since 1944).
The National Estonian Radio began broadcasting in 1924, and the Estonian Television in 1955. The Estonian Telegraph Agency has been operating since 1918.
Sport. Estonia has a long-standing sports culture. Already in the 1920s–1930s, the country took part in Olympic Games, performing most successfully in wrestling and weightlifting. Thus, Kristjan Palusalu became the winner in freestyle and classical wrestling at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. International grandmaster Paul Keres was a multiple champion of the USSR and winner of chess Olympiads. In 1992, the Estonian team again took part in the Olympic Games for the first time since 1936.
Holidays. National holiday: Independence Day - February 24. In addition, holidays such as New Year, Spring Day - May 1, Victory Day (celebration of victory in the 1919 War of Independence) - June 23, Midsummer's Day - June 24, as well as religious holidays: Christmas and Easter.
STORY
Many have been discovered on the territory of Estonia archaeological sites. The most ancient settlements belong to the Kunda culture (Pulli site on the bank of the Pärnu River, near the city of Sindi, etc.). Representatives of this culture later mixed with the Finno-Ugric tribes who came here in the 3rd millennium BC. from the south, and then with the Baltic tribes. Subsequently, Scandinavians, Germans, and Slavs took part in the formation of the Estonian nation. Despite numerous invasions from the west, south and east, the Estonian lands (Maakonda) remained independent until the 13th century.
Foreign domination. From the 1220s to 1918, Estonia was under foreign rule. The southern part in 1224 was divided between the Livonian Order, the bishops of Dorpat and Ezel. The northern part belonged to Denmark from 1238 to 1346. The country was dominated by the Teutonic knights, the landowning aristocracy and local bishops of the Catholic Church, who were supported by city merchants. The Estonians, conquered by the Danes and the Teutonic Knights, remained peasants and became increasingly enslaved. The Catholic faith was poorly spread among Estonians, as the church showed no interest in their language and culture. The attitude towards religion among Estonians began to change only in connection with the penetration of the Reformation into Estonia (1521) and the subsequent involvement of the population into the fold of the Lutheran Church.
As a result of the Livonian War (1558–1583), the Livonian Order collapsed: Northern part Estonia found itself under the rule of the Swedes, the south - under the rule of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The island of Saaremaa remained with Denmark. Since 1645, the entire territory of Estonia became part of Sweden. At the beginning of the 18th century. Russia's interests in the Baltic region collided with the interests of Sweden. The Northern War (1700–1721) between Russia and Sweden, accompanied by a devastating plague epidemic, ended with the victory of Russia and the annexation of Estonia and Latvia.
From the end of the 17th century. School instruction in Estonian became widespread, and in 1739 the Bible was published in Estonian for the first time. By 1790, the population of Estonia numbered approx. 500 thousand people. The abolition of serfdom in 1816–1819 was an important step towards the liberation of Estonian peasants from German dependence, but several more decades passed before they received the right to acquire land as their own.
Estonian national movement. Agrarian reforms and the development of the educational system under Emperor Alexander II (reigned 1855–1881) contributed to the emergence of the Estonian national movement. In the 1880s–1890s, the tsarist government pursued a policy of administrative and cultural Russification in Estonia. Under the influence of the revolutionary movement of 1905 in Russia, a wave of mass worker strikes swept across Estonia. The national bourgeoisie demanded liberal reforms. Organized worker protests resumed in 1912 and especially since 1916.
Under the influence of the events of the February Revolution of 1917 in Petrograd, workers and soldiers in Estonia began to remove tsarist officials from power. In March, Councils of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies were created in Tallinn and other cities. The governor was replaced by a representative of the Provisional Government of Russia, the mayor.
Almost simultaneously with the October Revolution of 1917 in Petrograd, the Soviets of Workers' and Military Deputies came to power in the largest industrial centers of Estonia, dissolved the Provincial Zemstvo Council and began to nationalize banks, industrial enterprises, means of transport and landowners' lands.
Formation of the independent Republic of Estonia. Soviet power in Estonia lasted until February 18, 1918, when its territory was occupied by German troops. Taking advantage of the situation, the leaders of the Estonian intelligentsia K. Päts, J. Vilms and K. Konik published a manifesto “On the Independence of Estonia” on February 24, 1918. During the German occupation, Soviet regulations were abolished, and previously expropriated lands were returned to the landowners. In mid-November 1918, Germany transferred the administration of Estonia to the hands of the Provisional Government under the leadership of Päts. At the end of the same month, Red Army troops were sent to the Baltic states to restore Soviet power. As a result, Narva was conquered on November 28, 1918, and the next day the state of the Estonian Labor Commune was proclaimed, headed by the chairman of the Council of the Commune, J. Anvelt, and the head of the Department of Internal Affairs, V. Kingisepp. At the same time, an armed struggle against units of the Red Army began throughout Estonia, with the support of the United States and Great Britain. On June 5, 1919, the government of the Estonian Labor Commune ceased to exist.
After a 13-month war of liberation against Soviet Russia (November 28, 1918 – January 3, 1920), the Tartu Peace Treaty was signed on February 2, 1920 between the RSFSR and Estonia. According to the first constitution, Estonia was proclaimed a democratic republic in which power belonged to a unicameral parliament. In December 1924, the Estonian Communist Party, acting in accordance with the instructions of the Chairman of the Comintern G.E. Zinoviev, raised an armed uprising, which was suppressed. The rise of the national movement, which coincided with the global economic crisis early 1930s, contributed to the spread of conservative ideas in Estonia. On March 12, 1934, a coup d'état was carried out. The national bourgeoisie, led by K. Päts and I. Laidoner, came to power. By the fall, parliament was dissolved, and subsequently all active political parties were banned. In fact, a dictatorship was established. In 1937, a new constitution was developed, which came into force in 1938. It returned Estonia to parliamentarism, and it became possible to elect opposition deputies (although the activities of political parties were still prohibited). The post of president was introduced, and Päts was elected the first president in April 1938.
In the second half of the 1930s, Estonia experienced rapid economic growth. The most developed industries - oil shale, cellulose, phosphate - were reoriented to the German market. At the end of the 1930s, Germany became Estonia's main export partner, where most of its agricultural products were supplied.
The further fate of Estonia was decided in August 1939, when the Soviet-German non-aggression pact was signed with secret protocols, according to which Estonia fell into the sphere of interests of the Soviet Union. On September 28, 1939, Estonia concluded a forced mutual assistance agreement with the USSR, according to which military bases of the Soviet Union were located on the territory of Estonia. On June 17, 1940, the Soviet government presented an ultimatum, which was followed in August of the same year by the entry of Soviet troops and the annexation of the entire territory of the country.
Soviet Estonia. On June 21, 1940, the Estonian government was overthrown and was replaced by the Popular Front government with the support of the Soviet Army. On July 21, 1940, the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic was proclaimed, and on August 25, its constitution was adopted. The main efforts of the Soviet government were aimed at the rapid Sovietization of the former independent republic; arrests and executions began. In September 1941, Nazi German troops invaded Estonia and occupied the country.
In the autumn of 1944, after heavy fighting, Estonia was occupied by units of the Red Army. During the war, about half of the industrial enterprises were destroyed, most of the livestock were destroyed, approx. 80 thousand inhabitants, at least 70 thousand Estonians emigrated. At the end of the war, the authorities launched massive repressions (many specialists, public figures and wealthy peasants were arrested and deported). Private property was abolished in the industrial sector in 1945, and in trade in 1947. The forced collectivization of agriculture provoked armed resistance by partisans (the so-called “forest brothers”), which lasted until 1953.
During the Khrushchev "thaw" the Estonian Communist Party gained a certain degree of independence from the CPSU in governing the republic. However, in the subsequent period, especially after 1968, there was a rollback from the liberalization policy. The response was the spread of political dissent, expressed in demands for Estonia's independence and the restoration of the role of the Estonian language in education and public life. In 1980, forty representatives of the intelligentsia, including liberal-minded members of the CPSU, sent “Letter 40” - essentially a manifesto against Sovietization - to central government bodies and the newspaper Pravda.
Restoring independence. The mass movement for independence in Estonia began in 1987 with public protest against the barbaric mining of phosphorites, which was causing serious environmental damage to the country. In 1988, the Popular Front of Estonia was created, as well as a number of other political organizations (including the Independence Party), which put forward demands for separation from the USSR. In November 1988, the Supreme Council of Estonia, headed by communist reformers, adopted the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Estonian SSR by 254 votes to 7. In 1989, the desire to achieve full independence intensified, the Committee of Estonian Citizens carried out a campaign to register Estonian citizens. In March 1990, the newly elected Supreme Council of Estonia announced the beginning of the transition to full independence, and on May 8, 1990, the Republic of Estonia was proclaimed, soon recognized by many states. On September 6, 1991, the independence of Estonia was recognized by the USSR and then by the USA.
The main political milestones after August 1991 were the adoption of a new constitution in June 1992 and the parliamentary and presidential elections in September and October 1992. After the first parliamentary elections held in September 1992, a center-right coalition led by Mart Laar formed the cabinet. In October 1992, parliament elected the first president of Estonia, Lennart Meri, a writer and former foreign minister, who was re-elected to this post in September 1996.
The introduction of a new currency, the Estonian kroon, pegged to the German mark in June 1992, stopped inflation and allowed the economy to stabilize. Thanks to a balanced budget and price liberalization, Estonia has achieved significant economic success over several years.
The parties that supported the Laar government failed in the parliamentary elections in March 1995, when a new coalition led by Tiit Vähi, consisting of representatives of the Coalition Party, the Agrarian Union and the Estonian Center Party, won. The ruling coalition continued its policy of economic liberalization and integration with Western European countries. However, the Vähi government lasted only two years and was replaced by a minority government under the leadership of Mart Sijman. Political confrontation began to intensify as the 1999 elections approached.
Although the new election law aims to reduce the number of parties, Estonia's political system remains fragmented. According to the results of the elections held in March 1999, the parliament included representatives of the Center Party of Estonia (28 seats), the Fatherland Union (18), the Reform Party (18), the Moderate Party (17) and the Coalition Party of Estonia (7), the Union of Agrarians ( 7), United People's Party of Estonia (6).
In August 1994, units of the Russian army were withdrawn from Estonia. The Estonian government, in turn, has adopted the principle of “social guarantees” in relation to approximately 10 thousand former Soviet officers living in the country, now pensioners, and members of their families. The problem of citizenship of non-Estonians who moved to Estonia during the years of Soviet power has not yet been fully resolved.
In October 2001, the parliament of the republic elected the former chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Council of the Estonian SSR, Arnold Ruutel, as president of the country.
On March 29, 2004, Estonia officially became a member of NATO.
LITERATURE
Soviet Union:. M., 1967
Soviet Estonia: Encyclopedic Reference. Tallinn, 1979
Wanatoa E. Estonian SSR: Directory. Tallinn, 1986
Kahk Y., Silivask K. History of the Estonian SSR. Tallinn, 1987
– Eesti: Quick reference. Tallinn, 1999

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ESTONIA

REPUBLIC OF ESTONIA
State in the northwest of Eastern Europe. In the north it is washed by the Gulf of Finland, in the west by the Baltic Sea. In the east the country borders on Russia, in the south on Latvia. Estonia owns more than 1,500 islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. The area of ​​the country is about 45,100 km2.
The population of Estonia (1998 estimates) is approximately 1,421,300 people. Ethnic groups: Estonians - 61.5%, Russians - 30.3%, Ukrainians - 3.2%, Belarusians - 1.8%, Finns - 1.1%, Jews, Latvians. Language: Estonian (state), Russian. Religion: Lutheran, Orthodox. The capital is Tallinn. Largest cities: Tallinn (502,000 people), Tartu (114,239 people), Narva (87,000 people), Pärnu. The government system is a republic. The head of state is President Lennart Meri (re-elected on September 20, 1996). The head of government is Prime Minister T. Vähi (in office since April 17, 1995). The monetary unit is the Estonian kroon. Average life expectancy (as of 1998): 64 years - men, 75 years - women.
Estonia declared independence on August 20, 1991. The country is a member of the UN and the IMF.
Among the many attractions of the country one can note: in Narva - medieval castle, in Tartu - the town hall building and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe. In Tallinn there is an ensemble of the Old Town with numerous cathedrals, fortress walls and medieval towers. The upper city was built in the XIII-XIV centuries. Lower town - in the XIV-XVI centuries.

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Natural conditions
Most of The territory is a moraine plain. In the southeastern part, a strip of hilly hills begins (height up to 318 m); The northern and central parts are occupied by the Pandivere Hill (height up to 166 m). The climate is transitional: from maritime to continental. Average temperatures in February are -6 °C, in July - 17 °C. Precipitation is up to 700 mm per year. Latvia is rich in beautiful clean lakes. The largest are Chudsko-Pskovskoye and Vyrtsjärv. The Narva Reservoir is famous. The soils are predominantly soddy-podzolic, soddy-carbonate, and swampy. Forests occupy over 40% of the territory (two thirds of them are coniferous). Nature reserves: Viidumäe, Vilsandi, Matsalu, Nigula. Lahemaa National Park.

Economy
Estonia is an industrial-agrarian country. Leading industries: mechanical engineering and metalworking (electrical and radio engineering industry, instrument making and ship repair), chemical (production of mineral fertilizers, sulfuric acid, benzene, detergents, etc.), light (textile, etc.) and food (meat and dairy , fish, confectionery, etc.). The country has established production of building materials, pulp, and paper. Applied arts became widespread: leather goods, metal goods, textiles and knitted items.
Agriculture mainly specializes in dairy and beef cattle breeding and bacon pig farming. In crop production, preference is given to grain (42.2%; barley, rye, wheat) and feed crops (50.5%). They grow potatoes and vegetables. Main sea ​​ports: Tallinn, Novotallinsky. Navigation on the river Emajõgi. Latvia exports products from the electrical and radio-electronic industries, industrial equipment, chemicals, food and consumer goods. Main foreign trade partners: Russia, Eastern countries. and Sev. Europe. Resorts: Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva-Joesuu, Kuressaare.
Story
By the 1st millennium AD The main groups of Estonian tribes formed; during this period, contacts between the Estonians (Chud in Russian chronicles) and the Eastern Slavs were established. arise shopping centers on the site of modern Tallinn, Tartu, large settlements - Otepää, Valjala, Varbla, etc. In the 11th century. The Estonians made a number of campaigns in Russian and Scandinavian lands. In the 11th-12th centuries. unsuccessful attempts were made to annex the Estonians to the ancient Russian principalities. In the 13th century territorial associations-maakondas emerged.
From the 13th century Estonia was the object of German and then Danish aggression. In the 2nd quarter of the 13th - mid-16th centuries. the territory of Estonia, conquered by the German crusaders, was part of Livonia. At the end of the 16th century. Estonia is divided between Sweden (north), the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (south) and Denmark (Saaremaa island); in the middle of the 17th century. the entire territory is under Swedish rule. According to the Treaty of Nystadt in 1721, Estonia became part of Russia. The abolition of serfdom in the Estland (1816) and Livonia (1819) provinces accelerated socio-economic development. At the end of October 1917, Soviet power was established. From November 29, 1918 to June 5, 1919, the Estonian Soviet Republic existed (name Estonian Labor Commune). On May 19, 1919, the Constituent Assembly proclaimed the creation of the Estonian Republic; in March 1934, a coup d'état was carried out in Estonia, a dictatorship was established, parliament was dissolved, and in 1935 all political parties were banned. In June 1940, Soviet troops were brought into Estonia. On July 21, 1940, the Estonian SSR was formed. On August 6, 1940, it was annexed by the USSR, and some Estonians were deported. By December 1941, Estonia was occupied by Nazi troops; released in 1944. In 1991, the Supreme Court of the Republic of Estonia adopted a resolution on the state independence of Estonia. In 2004, the country joined the EU and NATO.
Tourism and rest
Tourism in Estonia is the third source of budget revenue. Tourism traditions generally date back to the middle of the last century. It was then that the northern and western coasts became favorite place rest and restoration of health among the Russian nobility and intelligentsia. Nowadays more and more services are offered resort towns Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva, Iyesuu. A large number of tourists visit another beautiful city in Estonia - Tartu. Lovers of a calm and measured holiday are attracted by the small resort town of Ust-Narva, located 14 km from Narva.

Cities
Paldiski is a small cozy town in the Harju region of Estonia, located 49 km from Tallinn and 80 km (by sea) from Finland on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. The city was founded by Peter I in the 17th century. Since then, many attractions have remained, but the most important is the Peter's Fortress. The town is ideal for a quiet family vacation: beautiful uncrowded beaches, sea ​​air and virgin nature will provide a good mood.
Viljandi is a county center in Estonia, located on the high shore of the low lake Viljandi, which stretches for more than 10 km. Population - 23 thousand inhabitants. The city has been known since 1211. Dense spruce forests on one bank and a steep, steep bank on the other gave it an advantageous position.
In 1224, the Crusaders built the Order Castle here, which is considered one of the largest in the Baltic. The city was part of the Hanseatic League and was in the possession of Russia, Poland, and Sweden. Until 1917 the official name of the city was Fellin. Despite the fact that the city is not large, it is full of various attractions and architectural monuments. For example, the city has preserved a beautiful medieval castle (13th century), with a picturesque suspension bridge, connecting the Castle with the city. The Church of St. Paul has been preserved - a striking example of the neo-Gothic architectural style. You can see many wonderful modern monuments.
Haapsalu (until 1917 the official name was Gapsal) is a tiny town on west coast Estonia, 100 km from Tallinn. Population - 12.5 thousand inhabitants. Considered the most sunny resort Estonia, washed on three sides by the sea. Until 1917, the city was called Gaspal. City attractions, beautiful nature, clean air and silence of coastal pine forests, a warm bay and picturesque thickets of reeds, sea ​​bathing and the healing mud of the bays - all this attracts people to Haapsalu. The city was founded in 1279. For several centuries, Haapsalu was the center of the Catholic bishopric and was a fairly influential city. Here is an ancient bishop's castle from the 16th century. Subsequently, Haapsalu experienced the rule of the Swedes and Russians.
In 1825 he became seaside resort, which was visited by members of the imperial family. Today, the preserved walking path along the seaside and the wooden Kursaal located there remind us of the rise of Haapsalu as a resort. It is interesting to see the sights of the town: the ruins and 38-meter watchtower of the bishop's castle, an alley with a memorial bench made of dolomite with a portrait of P. I. Tchaikovsky, the Town Hall building, the Dome Church with a round chapel of the 14th century. It is interesting to listen to the legend about the ghostly vision of the White Lady, who appears in the window of the sacristy of the Dome Church on a full moon night in August as a symbol of eternal love.

National cuisine
The range of Estonian national cuisine includes many dishes from pork (pork legs, pea soup from pork legs, boiled pork with vegetables, etc.), fish (pickled herring, herring soup, pickled herring, dishes from pike perch, flounder, etc.). Such national dishes as kama flour made from rye, peas, wheat and barley, consumed with milk or curdled milk, mulgikapsad - cabbage cooked with pork and cereals, blood sausage, blood dumplings, are very popular. Dairy products occupy a special place in Estonian cuisine. Milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, whipped cream, and homemade cheese are included in the daily diet. We recommend trying sour oatmeal jelly.

National holidays
January 1 - New Year
February 24 - Independence Day
March/April - Easter
May 1 - Spring Festival
May/June - Trinity
June 23 - Victory Day (anniversary of the battle of Võnnu)
June 24 - Midsummer's Day Illustrated encyclopedic dictionary Modern encyclopedia

The largest shale mine in Europe. Production capacity 5.4 million tons of commercial oil shale per year. It is located in the middle part of the Estonian oil shale deposit, 20 km from the town of Kohtla Järve. Commissioned in 1972 together with enrichment, f... ... Geological encyclopedia

- (Estonia), state in the east. coast of the Baltic Sea. Annexed by Russia in 1709, it regained its independence in 1918 during the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia. The most important event in the history of Egypt in the 1920s. agrarian reform has become paradise... ... The World History

They will be an excellent opportunity not only to relax in comfort, but also to learn a lot of interesting things about our Baltic neighbor.

Another interesting fact ob is the country with the largest Wi-Fi access in Europe. More than 1,100 access points have been created here, which for a country with such large area just unbelieveble.

Wi-Fi literally covers almost the entire country and you can connect to the network in any locality in almost any cafe or store.

All conditions for excellent beach holiday and especially for families with children. A lot of playgrounds, clean, well-equipped beaches and wonderful beaches attract a lot of tourists here.

Holidays in Estonian

The best Observation deck, from where the view is especially amazing, is located on the bell tower, and the view from there allows you to decorate your travel album with memorable panoramic photos.

St. John is rightfully considered the cultural capital of St. John, where one of the oldest in Europe has been working since the 17th century. His main building- a historical and architectural landmark that all guests of the city strive to visit. One of the most photographed places is, also with its clay stucco ornaments, and the most visited is where the strong half of the tourist fraternity is ready, without interrupting, to listen to the guide. In total, there are at least twenty museums open in which both children and adults find a lot of interesting things.

Mysterious Island

It also has its own islands, rightly called unique nature reserves. The largest is, which is easily accessible by ferry.

Its pristine beauty outshines all creations of human hands. There are bays and rocky beaches where lovers of solitude and lovers of natural masterpieces like to relax. Comfortable hotels and guest houses offer visitors real comfort and the opportunity to unite with nature. Sand dunes, cool sea waves, a tart pine aroma filling the air - it’s not for nothing that it is considered one of the best Baltic resorts.

The sights of the island are worthy of a separate story. The Sõrve lighthouse has been lighting the way for sailors and fishermen for almost four hundred years, and with windmills it tells inquisitive travelers about ancient folk crafts and gives the opportunity to try making a memorable souvenir with their own hands. The capital of the island preserves one of the oldest in Europe, built in the 13th century. Its museum houses many interesting exhibits, including urban legends about the old fortress.

Tasty and healthy

A trip to the region will not take place without visiting its restaurants with national dishes on the traditional menu. The main and most favorite dishes of Estonians can be tasted in any local cafe. On the eve of Christmas, the menu will certainly include jellied meat and blood sausage served with lingonberry sauce, and on Maslenitsa - buns decorated with whipped cream. Pickled herring, roast with sauerkraut and aromatic pates, soft cheeses and rich soups of potatoes, cabbage or peas with smoked meats are always loved here.

Estonians love coffee and know how to prepare and drink it. After many hours of sightseeing, it’s so pleasant to go to a cafe in any Estonian city, order a cup of aromatic light Scandinavian roasted drink and, closing your eyes in unearthly bliss, remember the past day and relive its especially bright moments.
And then breathe a sigh of relief, remembering that this evening, fortunately, is not the last...

goBaltia

Estonia is a country located in the northwest of Eastern Europe on the northeast coast of the Baltic Sea. The official name of the state is the Republic of Estonia. The territory of Estonia is washed by the Gulf of Riga and the Gulf of Finland. The capital of the republic is the city of Tallinn.

Republic of Estonia – just the facts

The Republic of Estonia was proclaimed on February 24, 1918. Before this, from the 13th century until 1583, its territory belonged to the Livonian Order, from 1583 it passed to Sweden, and from 1710 to 1918 it was part of the Russian Empire. The first Republic of Estonia existed from 1918 to 1940. In 1940 it became part of the USSR, of which it was a full socialist republic until August 20, 1991. This date is considered the Day of Restoration of Independence.

During the Second World War from 1941 to 1944, Estonia was occupied by Nazi Germany. The liberation of the republic took place in several stages; the invaders' troops were completely expelled from here in the fall of 1944. After this, Estonia was again included in the USSR. According to today's official interpretation, the subsequent years in the press and government speeches are usually called occupation.

In 1921, Estonia became a member of the League of Nations. After the restoration of independence in 1991, the state became a member of the UN. Since 2004, following the results of a national referendum (in which only indigenous citizens were allowed to participate), the Republic of Estonia became part of the European Union. At the same time, she joined the North Atlantic military alliance NATO. Since January 2007, Estonia has been included in the Schengen legal area.

Estonia country dialing code: +372.

State symbols of Estonia

The main symbols of the country Estonia are state flag, coat of arms and anthem. Their use is regulated by law. The symbols of the Republic of Estonia appeared long before statehood was established.

Country Estonia – administrative structure

The Republic of Estonia is considered one of the smallest states in the world. The territory of Estonia is 45,227 square kilometers. According to the Department of Statistics, at the beginning of 2015, the population of the republic was 1,312,252 people. The territory of Estonia is divided into counties, which in turn consist of volosts.

The largest cities in Estonia are Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu and Narva. Important tourist centers also include small resorts where medical tourism is developed. The republic has developed a good tradition of assigning the symbolic title of capital to different cities: the spring capital is the city of Türi, the summer capital is Pärnu, the autumn capital is Narva and the winter capital is Otepää.

Countries bordering Estonia

Estonia has a land border with Russian Federation in the east and with the Republic of Latvia in the south. To cross the Estonian-Russian border, you must obtain a visa (holders of so-called “gray” passports, that is, stateless persons, can cross the state border freely). No visa is required to cross the Latvian-Estonian border, border and passport control is not produced here, since both states belong to the Schengen area.

Estonia's closest neighbors also include Finland and Sweden. The countries are separated by the Baltic Sea, and constant shipping is established between their capitals. The distance from Tallinn to Helsinki is about 80 kilometers. Estonia is connected to its neighbors by bus, sea and air links. Until May 2015, it was also possible to get to the capital of the republic from Russia by train.

Tallinn is the capital of the Republic of Estonia. During its long and not always peaceful existence, the city managed to change several names: it was called Kolyvanya, Lindanise and Revel.

The first mention of the small town of Kolyvan (or Koluvan) in written sources dates back to the beginning of the 12th century: the Arab geographer Al-Idrisi talks in one of his works about the settlement of farmers in Estland (the country of the Estonians). Since the first half of the 13th century, this name has also been found in Russian chronicles. The Scandinavians (Swedes and Danes) approached the matter in their own way: they used the incomprehensible word Lindanise to name this small town. After joining Russia as a result of the victory in the Northern War (1719), the German name Revel was assigned to the city. Actually, the city received the Estonian sonorous and drawn-out name Tallinn (spelling variant - Tallinn) at the beginning of the 20th century, when the Russian Empire turned into Soviet Russia.

To date, there is no consensus on the meaning and origin of the bell-like or coin-like word “Tallinn”. The only thing that can be said with absolute certainty is that the root “-linn” means “city” (by analogy with the German “-burg”). But what “tal-” is remains a mystery. If you have already been to Tallinn at different times of the year and managed to fall in love and understand this city, try choosing one of the options: “taani linn” (“Danish hail”), “tali linn” (“winter hail”) or “talu linn” (“house, estate-castle”).

The appearance of Tallinn and its legends were shaped by different peoples: over the course of a thousand years, the castle city managed to be in the hands of the Danes, Germans, Swedes and Russians. Until the first half of the 14th century, the city belonged either to the Danes or to the Germans. Sold to the Teutons in 1346, from the beginning of the 15th to the middle of the 16th century, Revel was actively developing economically and, therefore, architecturally and culturally. Since 1561 there has been a new round of development of the city under Swedish rule. Revel became part of Russia in 1710: unable to withstand the siege, which lasted a month and a half, the townspeople raised white flags and surrendered.

Based: 1154
Square: 159.2 km 2
Population: 450,830 people (2018)
Currency: Euro
Language: Estonian
Official website: http://www.tallinn.ee/rus

Current time in Tallinn:
(UTC +2)

Modern Tallinn is a maritime city on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. On an area of ​​159.2 sq. km. as of August 2018, the population is 450,830. The multinationality of the Estonian capital is an echo of the Soviet Union: Estonians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, Russians, Finns, Germans. Distinctive feature geographical location Tallinn is enough large lakeÜlemiste, located within the city. It occupies the 17th part of the capital’s area (9.6 sq. km.) and serves as the main source of fresh water.

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Transfers to Tallinn

Show transfers from Tallinn

Tallinn port		Tallinn	from 1412 p.
Tallinn Airport		Tallinn	from 1412 p.
		Tallinn	from 1561 p.
		Tallinn	from 1561 p.
Viimsi		Tallinn	from 1709 p.
Muuga Port		Tallinn	from 1858 p.
Maardu		Tallinn	from 2304 p.
Kiyli		Tallinn	from 2304 p.
Laulasmaa		Tallinn	from 4161 p.
Yaneda		Tallinn	from 5945 p.
Loksa		Tallinn	from 6911 p.
Rakvere		Tallinn	from 7357 p.
Haapsalu		Tallinn	from 8248 p.
Vihula		Tallinn	from 9140 p.
Kohtla-Jarve		Tallinn	from 10106 p.
Parnu		Tallinn	from 10106 p.
Viljandi		Tallinn	from 10106 p.
Otepää		Tallinn	from 11444 p.
Kiviõli		Tallinn	from 11890 p.
Narva-Joesuu		Tallinn	from 12410 p.
Tartu		Tallinn	from 12410 p.
Tartu		Tallinn	from 12410 p.
Narva		Tallinn	from 12410 p.
		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
Saint Petersburg		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
Pulkovo Airport		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
Moscow station		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
		Tallinn	from 14637 p.
Riga Airport		Tallinn	from 15085 p.
Võru		Tallinn	from 15085 p.
Riga		Tallinn	from 15085 p.
Central station Riga		Tallinn	from 15085 p.
Bus station in Riga		Tallinn	from 15085 p.
Jurmala		Tallinn	from 18280 p.

Tallinn		Tallinn port	from 1412 p.
Tallinn		Tallinn Airport	from 1412 p.
Tallinn		Tallinn Central Bus Station	from 1561 p.
Tallinn		Tallinn railway station	from 1561 p.
Tallinn		Viimsi	from 1709 p.
Tallinn		Muuga Port	from 1858 p.
Tallinn		Kiyli	from 2304 p.
Tallinn		Maardu	from 2304 p.
Tallinn		Laulasmaa	from 4161 p.
Tallinn		Yaneda	from 5945 p.
Tallinn		Loksa	from 6911 p.
Tallinn		Rakvere	from 7357 p.
Tallinn		Haapsalu	from 8248 p.
Tallinn		Vihula	from 9140 p.
Tallinn		Kohtla-Jarve	from 10106 p.
Tallinn		Viljandi	from 10106 p.
Tallinn		Parnu	from 10106 p.
Tallinn		Otepää	from 11444 p.
Tallinn		Kiviõli	from 11890 p.
Tallinn		Tartu	from 12410 p.
Tallinn		Narva-Joesuu	from 12410 p.
Tallinn		Tartu	from 12410 p.
Tallinn		Narva	from 12410 p.
Tallinn		Riga Central Station	from 15085 p.
Tallinn		Võru	from 15085 p.
Tallinn		Riga Airport	from 15085 p.
Tallinn		Bus station in Riga	from 15085 p.
Tallinn		Riga	from 15085 p.
Tallinn		Frunzensky District St. Petersburg	from 17834 p.
Tallinn		Jurmala	from 18280 p.
Tallinn		Pulkovo Airport	from 20584 p.
Tallinn		Moskovsky District St. Petersburg	from 20584 p.
Tallinn		Baltiysky Station St. Petersburg	from 20584 p.
Tallinn		Admiralteysky District St. Petersburg	from 20584 p.
Tallinn		Saint Petersburg	from 20584 p.
Tallinn		Pskov	from 20584 p.

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Climate and weather in Tallinn

Weather forecast

Saturday 30.03

Sunday 31.03

Monday 01.04

Tuesday 02.04

Wednesday 03.04

Thursday 04.04

on "Pogoda.Tourister.Ru"

Weather in Tallinn by month

	Temperature day, °C	Temperature at night, °C	Temperature water, °C	Quantity precipitation, mm
	-2	-8	-1	45
	-2	-8	-1	29
	2	-5	0	29
	8	0	4	36
	15	5	8	37
	19	10	13	53
	21	12	18	79
	20	12	21	84
	15	7	18	82
	9	4	9	70
	3	-1	5	68
	0	-5	0	55

Reviews of tourists about Tallinn by month

January 58 February 7 March 12

April 5 May 25 June 17

July 41 August 20 September 31

October 22 November 15 December 26

Transport

The main transport in Tallinn is buses running on more than 68 routes. There are also 9 trolleybus and 4 tram lines throughout the capital of Estonia. Public transport operates daily from 6.00 to 23.00.

It is best to purchase tickets in advance at newsstands (1 euro per trip) than directly on the transport from the driver (1.6 euros per trip). As you can see, the price difference is more than 50%. At the kiosks you can also purchase a ticket for 10 trips for 8 euros or special travel tickets, the validity of which can be 1 hour (1.20 euros), 2 hours (1.6 euros), 24 hours (4 euros), 72 hours (6 euros) and 120 hours (7 euros). Tickets purchased at a kiosk or from the driver become valid only after they have been validated.

If you have purchased a Tallinn Card, public transport services are provided free of charge until the card expires. Also, with this card you can visit more than 40 museums and attractions and take part in one of the excursions.

You can read more about travel in the capital of Estonia (prices and other points), as well as about the Tallinn Card and all its advantages in the material “Transport in Tallinn”.

Photos of Tallinn

Districts

Since 1993, Tallinn has been administratively divided into 8 districts.

Kesklinn (Kesklinn, "city center")

As the name suggests, Kesklinn is the central district of the capital of Estonia. On its territory is located the historical center of Tallinn - the Old Town, Lake Ülemiste, Tallinn Port and most of the attractions.

First of all, these are the Parliament Building, the Government Residence, the Catherine Palace, Kadriorg Park, the Bronze Soldier Monument, the Estonian National Opera, Russian Theatre of Drama, Oleviste Church, Church of the Holy Spirit, Dome Cathedral, Town Hall Square, Town Hall, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Kristiine (Kristiine)

The Kristiine district is famous for the abundance of green areas located on its territory: the district includes 3 protected gardens and Leverue Park. Kristiine is divided into 4 microdistricts: Järve, Tondi, Lilleküla and Marja-Liimi-Laki. Järve is built up with typical five-story buildings from the 1960s. Lilleküla is translated from Estonian as “flower village”: the streets named after flowers and birds fully justify the name of this microdistrict. Marja-Liimi-Laki was once an area of ​​summer estates, and is now one of the largest industrial centers in Tallinn.

Lasnamäe (Lasnamäe)

Lasnamäe is the largest district of the city in terms of population; it is located on both sides of the Tallinn-St. Petersburg highway. Two parts of the district - residential and industrial - consist of 17 microdistricts. The events of the legendary St. George's Night (April 23, 1343), which began the Peasants' War (a revolt against the German Crusades), unfolded precisely on the territory of Lasnamäe. Nowadays, a park has been laid out at the site where the rebellion began.

Mustamäe (Mustamäe)

From the point of view of attractions, the residential area of ​​Mustamäe does not present anything interesting. Its territory is built up with panel houses built in 1962-1970.

Nõmme (Nõmme)

Until 1940, Nõmme had the status of a city. Most of the buildings are private houses. Buildings are sparse, so Nõmme, surrounded by greenery, is rightly called a “forest city.” Among the attractions, it is worth noting the castle and park of Baron von Glen.

Pirita (Pirita)

The only river in Tallinn, the Pirita, flows through the territory of this prestigious area, built up, like Nõmme, with private houses, the valley of which has been given the status of a nature reserve since 1957. One of the boundaries of the area is the sea beach, which on summer days is filled with crowds of vacationing townspeople. Famous attractions in the area are the Tallinn TV Tower and St. Brigid's Monastery.

Nõhja-Tallinn (Põhja-Tallinn, "Northern Tallinn")

The Põhja-Tallinn region is famous primarily for the ancient settlement of Kalamaja. In ancient times, there was a small fishing village here, and now it is a place of residence and hangouts for creative youth.

Haabersti (Haabersti)

In the Haabersti district there is the second lake of Tallinn - Harku with its beach popular among holidaymakers, the largest zoo in Estonia, and the Rocca al Mare microdistrict is famous for the Estonian Ethnographic Museum under open air. The area also includes the Kakumäe sea beach.

What to see in Tallinn

Inspection of any European city with history it's worth starting with historical center. In Tallinn, this is the Old Town, and a strategically correct place for sightseeing is Town Hall Square, from where you can see the spire of the Church of the Virgin Mary, the spire of the Oleviste Church, the bell tower of the Church of the Holy Spirit, the top of the Niguliste Church, as well as the Town Hall, on the top of which is a figurine of the legendary “ city ​​guard" Old Toomas - the main symbol of Tallinn. Not far from the Town Hall is the Town Hall Pharmacy, which is considered to be the oldest pharmacy in Europe.

As for parks, it’s worth visiting the Danish King’s Garden, and the youngest travelers should visit the Miia-Malla-Manda children’s park. And of course, don’t forget about the Tallinn Zoo, whose collection includes more than 350 species of animals living on 89 hectares.

In Tallinn, buildings are not the only attractions. Thus, the entire Katarina Lane can easily be classified as an interesting city site, and even the entire Kadriorg district, in which the Kadriorg Palace and Park, the Mermaid Monument, and the House-Museum of Peter I are located.

Where to go in Tallinn

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Where to eat and drink

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Transport

Shops and markets

Private guides in Tallinn

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Tallinn in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Purchases

It's no secret that many tourists love to shop. There are plenty of places in Tallinn where you can do this. Shops, boutiques, department stores, antique stores, designer stores, jewelry stores, elegant shoe stores, souvenir and handicraft stores are just some of the things you can find in the Estonian capital. Shops, department stores and shopping centers in Tallinn offer tourists and city residents not only shopping, but also relaxing in a cafe or restaurant, as well as taking advantage of a number of different services. In addition to world-famous companies, everyone will be able to discover high-quality products from Estonian designers.

Shops and shopping centers in Tallinn may not have such a rich selection of goods as, for example, shops in Paris and Berlin, but Tallinn also has a good selection and fairly reasonable prices for goods. Read more about shopping in the capital of Estonia ( best areas for shopping, interesting products, shops and shopping centers, sales and tax refunds) you can read in the article “Shopping in Tallinn”.

Food and drink

Estonian pride and independence is also evident in the cuisine. Tallinn, of course, is no exception: most establishments offer national Estonian cuisine. These include a restaurant with the musical name "Kaerajaan", an ice cream parlor "Kehrwieder" and a cafe-reading room "Kehrwieder"

Communications in Tallinn

Telephone

You can call from Estonia to Russia, as well as send a fax, from any post office (opening hours: from 9 to 18 on weekdays, from 9 to 15 on Saturdays) or from the Main Post Office: Narva maantee 1. Post office opening hours: Mon-Fri 08.00 - 20.00, Sat 09.00-17.00, tel.: +372 617 7033, e-mail: [email protected], www.post.ee.

Call from Russia to Tallinn

From landline to landline: 8 - beep - 10 - 372 - 6 - subscriber number.

From mobile to mobile (to the number of an Estonian operator): + 7 372 - 6 - mobile number.

Internet

The Internet in Tallinn is in perfect order: even the cheapest hotels provide free Wi-Fi. Access points are also located in public places: cafeterias, beaches, parks, city squares, and so on.

Safety

In terms of security, Tallinn holds the mark of the capital European state: the city is quiet and calm even at night. However, in residential areas you should be careful. Tallinn authorities pay special attention to the safety of people on the beaches. According to official data, not a single accident occurred on water in 2010.

Municipal Police Department

• Paldiyskoe highway 47
• 10614 Tallinn
• Tel. 6619860
• Fax 6619879
• Email: [email protected]

Where to stay in Tallinn

There will be no problems with accommodation in the capital of Estonia - there are both budget hostels and luxury 5-star hotels. Full list hotels with descriptions (amenities in the room and on site, location diagram, photographs, etc.) you can see in the section “Hotels in Tallinn”. Below are presented the most interesting, in our opinion, accommodation facilities of different star categories.

In addition to traditional hotels, you can rent an apartment in Tallinn , this may be convenient for some categories of tourists - families with several children who prefer to cook for themselves, and so on.

Hostels

The hostel is located in the Old Town - the historical part of Tallinn. The hostel is only a few hundred meters away from Town Hall Square. Guests of Tallinn can stay in one of 30 rooms accommodating from 2 to 10 people. The hostel provides the opportunity to prepare food in a shared kitchen, and also offers a number of services: laundry, dry cleaning, car and bicycle rental, etc. Wi-Fi in the hostel is free. There is no curfew. Transfer. Private parking upon reservation - 6 euros per day. Price: from 12 euros (1 bed in a ten-bed bedroom).

“Old House” is a cozy hostel in the Old Town, located 300 meters from one of the most interesting attractions of the city - the House of the Blackheads. The hostel has 12 rooms, the furnishings of which immerse you in the atmosphere of the 19th century. The capacity of the rooms is from 2 to 6 people. Guests have access to a kitchen, shower, common lounge with TV, free parking and internet. Price: from 15 (1 bed in a six-person bedroom) to 84 euros (for a welcoming room for four).

16 € – hostel in the historic quarter of Rotermann near the Old Town. The number of rooms in the hostel is 46. Capacity is from 1 to 6 people. The 6-bed rooms have 3 bunk beds. The price includes free daily access to the pool, sauna and kitchen. Price: from 13 (for a bed in a 6-bed room) to 64 euros (for a quadruple room).

The hostel is located 100 meters from and a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. Showers and amenities are located on the floor (only some rooms have a separate bathtub with shower), there is no parking, and there is no cooking facility. Free access to the Turkish steam bath and Wi-Fi are available. Price: from 19 euros (for a single room with shared bathroom).

The hostel is located at the intersection of Tallinn's transport arteries, not far from the international bus station (2 km) and the Old Town (2 km). Parking, Wi-Fi and use of the kitchen are included in the price. The hostel offers accommodation for guests in 15 rooms, accommodating from 1 to 6 people (including shared and separate rooms for men and women). Price: from 13 euros (bed in a 6-bed room).

Alur Hostel is another central hostel in the Estonian capital. It is located almost on Town Hall Square in an ancient three-story building from the 15th century, restored in 2006. To accommodate guests, the hostel has prepared 75 beds in rooms with a modern design. There is an opportunity to prepare food and relax in a recreation room stylized as an old beer pub. There is inexpensive car parking and free bicycle parking. Internet throughout the hostel is free.

The hostel is located in the residential area of ​​Tallinn Lasnamae. A transport stop going to the city center is located next to the hostel building. The hostel offers accommodation for guests in 45 rooms, accommodating from 1 to 6 people. The hostel building has a sauna and laundry facilities. Wi-Fi and parking are free. Price: from 20 euros (for a single room).

Hotels**

The hotel is located in a small suburban area (6 km from the Old Town). Dzingel has 180 rooms, including luxury rooms and apartments. There are special rooms for people with disabilities and allergy sufferers. Each room has internet, a telephone line, and a separate shower. The hotel has several conference rooms, a restaurant, a sauna, a bar, a beauty salon, and a swimming pool. There is a parking lot on the hotel premises. Prices: from 39 (single room) to 134 euros (for apartments with jacuzzi).

The hotel is located on the embankment 200 meters from sea ​​beach Shtromka. The road from the hotel to the Old Town (3.5 km) public transport takes 15-20 minutes. For hotel guests there is a beauty salon, sauna, jacuzzi, restaurant, bar, laundry, dry cleaning, etc. The hotel offers 137 rooms for accommodation (total number of beds - 250). Rooms - single, double, family and suites. There are also special rooms for people with disabilities and allergy sufferers. Parking in the hotel courtyard is paid (from 7 euros per parking space for passenger car). Free Wi-Fi in public areas. Price: from 39 (for a single room) to 90 euros (for a “suite”).

Small cozy hotel in the city center offers accommodation for guests in 23 rooms with a capacity of 1 to 4 people. Hotel services include breakfast in the room, bicycle and car rental, free Internet and parking upon reservation. Price: from 39 (for a single room without breakfast) to 85 euros (for a double room with sauna and breakfast).

Hotels ***

The tourist class hotel “GoHotel Shnelli” belongs to the Go Group holding, which provides transport and tourism services (the GoRail company, part of the holding, is engaged in passenger rail transportation from Moscow). The hotel is located next to the Baltic railway station. To accommodate guests, the hotel offers 124 double rooms with the possibility of adding an extra bed. Some rooms offer magnificent views of the Old Town and Schnelli Pond. Hotel services include free internet, bicycle and car rental, shoe shine, conference room and banquet hall. There is also a casino and health Center. Parking services (without prior reservation) are free. Price: from 42 euros (for a double room). The price includes buffet breakfast and parking.

The name speaks for itself. The Ecoland Hotel is located in an ecologically clean area of ​​the Estonian Capital. Accommodation is in 76 rooms, which include houses with one or two bedrooms, a sauna and a fireplace. The price of hotel accommodation includes breakfast, morning sauna and swimming pool. The hotel places the main emphasis on the health of its guests, so you can simply marvel at the number of health services offered: a swimming pool with sea water and hydromassage, a mud bath with mud from Evpatoria, a salt chamber, massage rooms and much more. Internet throughout the hotel is free. There is parking. Prices: from 62 (for a single room) to 192 euros (for a house with a sauna, a fireplace and two bedrooms).

The hotel is located in the central part of the capital, the historical part - the Old Town - is a couple of minutes walk away. The hotel building, renovated in 1997, was built in 1903. To accommodate guests, the hotel offers 53 large rooms with a capacity of 1 to 2 people. There are 4 family and 2 double suites. The hotel building has a conference room. The restaurant, decorated in old German style, is located in the basement. Parking on site. Price: from 67 (for a place in a double room) to 116 euros (for a place in a single room). The price includes breakfast.

Hotels ****

Hotel "St. Olav" is located in the Old Town on Shiroka Street (this is how the word Lai is translated from Estonian). It received its name in honor of King Olav Haraldson. The Oleviste Church, consecrated in his honor, is located on the same street as the hotel. The decoration and furnishing of the rooms is made in a distinctly historical style. Interior designers used pseudo-Gothic elements, forging and patterned fabrics to decorate the rooms. The suites feature antique furniture and handmade bedspreads and curtains. There are 90 rooms in the hotel. Among them are economy class rooms, a junior suite with a bathhouse and a suite. All rooms have a separate entrance from the hotel courtyard. The hotel's services include a conference room, breakfast in the room, transfer from and to the airport, a honeymoon suite, and car rental. Wi-Fi is free. The hotel does not have its own parking. Prices: from 77 (in an economy class room) to 320 euros (in a suite). Breakfast is included in the room rate.

The hotel is located in a 14th century building and, like St. Olav, named after the Scandinavian king Olav. The highlight of the hotel is two- and three-room rooms with a kitchen, fireplace, terrace and sauna. The hotel rooms offer views of the sea, port and Old city. The rooms are equipped with shower or bath, TV, free access in Internet. Parking on site - from 1.55 euros per hour. Prices: from 70 (in an economy class room) to 244 euros (in a triple suite). Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Hotels *****

An elite five-star hotel located in the majestic building of the former Estonian telegraph office. Resembling a ship, the house was built according to the design of St. Petersburg architect Peter Schreinberg. The names of famous guests are written on the hotel's wall of fame: musicians, writers, statesmen. Bob Dylan, Lenny Kravitz, Mikhail Zhvanetsky, Rod Stewart, Enrique Iglesias stayed here. The list goes on for a long time. Also impressive is the list of various awards received by the hotel over the years of its existence. The hotel has a Russian cuisine restaurant “Tchaikovsky”, a lobby bar, a spa, steam and Finnish baths. Wi-Fi in all rooms. A distinctive feature of the hotel is the only hotel underground parking in the Old Town. The hotel has 86 rooms, including 3 suites and 1 presidential suite. Prices: from 175 (single occupancy in a double room) to 425 euros (suite room).

The hotel belongs to the Design Hotels chain. “Three Sisters” are three ancient merchant houses built close to each other. The hotel apartments are rightly called royal: Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, Queen Beatrix of Holland, Emperor Akihito of Japan and his wife Michiko stayed here. The list of famous visitors to the hotel includes practically only kings and presidents. Among the famous musicians who stayed here were Metallica, Sting, Deep Purple, Rammstein. The hotel has 23 rooms with designer furnishings. Price: from 365 to 950 euros.

Booking.com offers more than 830 hotels in Tallinn for booking. You can select a hotel using a variety of filters: hotel star rating, hotel type (hotel, apartment, villa, hostel, etc.), cost, hotel location, ratings of people who visited the hotel, Wi-Fi availability and much more. .