The captivating, neo-classic Old Town, the serene pathways and bridges of Toome Hill, the vibrant café scene and all those weird and wonderful bars... it’s no wonder the world is finally waking up to Tartu!
The second oldest city in the Baltic region, first mentioned in chronicles in 1030, is Estonia's second city, Tartu. Like Narva, Tartu was, in its own way, a bridge between east and west, between the Hanseatic League and the rich Russian cities of Pskov and Novgorod, since trade took place principally by way of the River Emajõgi and the shores of Lake Peipsi. In 1632, the university was founded there, Northern Europe's second-oldest university after Uppsala.
Among buildings worth visiting in Tartu, sometimes termed the Athens on the River Emajõgi, are the Cathedral (Toomkirik) from the 13th century, and the Saint John's Church (Jaani kirik) which dates from the 14th century. Both buildings belong to the era of Gothic brick, a Baltic architectural period.
Further noteworthy buildings include the City Hall Square in the late 18th century classical style, along with the early classical City Hall itself. Also the Main Building of the University of Tartu, from the early 19th century, is worth viewing, a building which soon became a symbol for the whole of the city.
As welcome these international visitors are though, in winter and spring, Tartu truly belongs to the students. They make up over a quarter of the city’s 100,000 inhabitants. In fact, by one estimate, 40% of Tartu residents are either students or young people. There’s no question that it’s this young culture that gives Tartu an energetic, daring character that’s at times whimsical, at times edgy, but always interesting.
This city, which has often been described as the cradle of Estonian culture is where the tradition of song festivals, now popular throughout the Baltic states, began, including the tradition of an international university song festival. The first such song festival was held in Tartu in 1869.
As more and more international visitors make their way to the ‘City of Good Thoughts’ each year, they’re spreading news of Tartu’s charm and raising its profile as a worthwhile, off-beat travel destination. Major events, like the annual Tartu Ski Marathon held here each winter, are also doing their part in catching the eye of the rest of the world.