Posted on January 24, 2012 by sguese

The smallest of the Baltic countries makes up for its lack of space in what it contains. Estonia is all about quality not quantity. It has its fair share of lovely seaside towns, country villages, green forests, marshlands, islands and a buzzing capital. While no longer a secret up here, Estonia still manages to keep hush-hush about just how great it is. Located in northern Europe, bordered by Latvia, Russia and the Baltic Sea, Estonia boasts one of the longest settled European peoples. There is proof. If you come to Estonia you must be a bit of a dreamer and adventurer. Begin your journey through the country by exploring its castles.

 

Toompea Castle

 

Perched on a hill in the country’s capital of Tallinn, Toompea Castle is a stunner. With its rare mix of architectural styles, this castle is one of Estonia’s most unique. You will notice the medieval traces in the Pikk Hermann and the more modern touches in the Parliament Building. A fortress has stood here since the 9^th century.

 

Narva Hermann Castle

 

The Narva Hermann Castle can be found in Narva, right up along the Estonian-Russian border. Just across from the Ivangorod Fortress in Russia, the castle was first built by the Danes. The Danes made the fortification completely out of wood. Throughout the ages, the Narva Hermann Castle has changed hands, belonging to the Danes, Russians and Swedes all at some point in time.

 

Kuressaare Castle

 

Head to the west coast of Estonia, on Saaremaa Island and you will uncover Kuressaare Castle. The castle is special in that it maintains its medieval façade. Over the ages, it hasn’t been significantly modified, setting it apart from the country’s other structures. Within, you can explore the museum about the history of Saaremaa, from the middle Ages to the last century.

 

Paks Magareeta

When your nickname is “Fat Margaret” you know you aren’t on the skinny side. The same is true for castles. In Estonia, Paks Magareeta sets up in the country’s capital of Tallinn. Fat Margaret is the name given to the tower that occupies the Great Coastal Gate in the city. Constructed in the early 16^th century, within this beast of a woman is an Estonian Maritime Museum. Head to the top of the tower for picture perfect views of Tallinn’s port and Old Town.