Eesti Esindus features
local artisans
the machine gun, torpedo & flight
simulators) and high-tech. Plan on a
couple of hours to explore war ships
and the world’s largest ice breakers,
crawl through a 600-ton submarine
from 1936 and then peruse their
new fashion exhibition, Sea in
the Wardrobe.
Afterwards, walk a block to the
Kalamaja (“Fish House”) district,
lined with wooden boardinghouses
where fishermen, sailors and factory
workers used to live. It has recently
evolved into a trendy bohemian
district, filled with artist studios,
popular eateries, cool music venues,
and a colorful Russian flea market
where you can score deals on
everything from Soviet bullet
casings to pork chops.
For a totally different perspective,
head underground to tour the
Bastion Tunnels. These secret
pathways were built in the 1600s,
and used as a defensive tunnel
system for transporting soldiers,
ammunition and for spying on the
enemy. Many years later, the tunnels
were transformed into air-raid
shelters equipped with electricity
and running water.
Highs & Lows
For an eagle-eye view, float high
above the city in the new Balloon
Tallinn. The helium-filled balloon is
tethered to the ground and smoothly
rises 400 feet high, where (on a
clear day) you can see Finland.
Although it was originally thought
to be a seasonal attraction, the ride
has been so popular that the owners
have decided to stay open year
round. “Winter balloon rides will be
very exciting: the sea is frozen and
our fairy-tale-like Old Town is
covered in white snow.”
Shop
Estonia’s arts and crafts scene
is in synch with the burgeoning
food scene. Both respect traditional
methods and utilize local
products, but add a contemporary,
creative spin.
24
Katariina Gild- start at this historic
merchant’s house, filled with
artisans’ studios and watch skilled
craftspeople create felt hats,
hand-carved wooden spoons, quality
leather-bound books, sophisticated
woven goods, stylish linen fashions,
etc.
Estonian Design House- this
attractive limestone gallery exhibits
exciting works by cutting-edge
young artists, such as Reet Aus, a
fashion designer who created Trash
to Trend – Using Upcycling in Fashion
Design.
Eesti Esindus- at first glance, it
looks like a typical souvenir shop,