It will become an excellent opportunity not only to relax with comfort, but also learn a lot of interesting things about the Baltic neighbor.

Another interesting fact is a country with the largest Wi-Fi access in Europe. More than 1,100 access points have been created here, which is just incredible for the country with such a not large area.

Wi-Fi literally covers almost the whole country and you can connect to the network in any settlement Almost in any cafe or shop.

All conditions are created here for excellent. beach holidays And especially for recreation with children. Mass of playgrounds, purely equipped beaches and wonderful attracts a lot of tourists here.

Estonian holidays

The best observation deck, from where it is particularly amazing, is located on the bell tower, and the view from allows you to decorate a journey album with memorable panoramic photos.

The cultural capital of St. Joan is considered to be in which one of the oldest Europe works from the XVII century. His main building is a historical and architectural landmark, to visit all guests of the city seek. One of the most photographed places is, as well as with its clay stucco ornaments, and the most visited - where a strong half of the tourist brethren is ready, not interrupting, listening to the guide. In total, there are no less than twenty museums in which many interesting and children and adults are found for themselves.

Mysterious Island

In there are also their islands, justly called unique nature reserves. The largest - to which it is easy to get to the ferry.

His primary beauty overshadows all the creations of human hands. There are bays and stony beaches, where they love to relax fans of privacy and lovers of natural masterpieces. Comfortable hotels I. guest Houses Offer visitors a real comfort and the possibility of unity with nature. Sand dunes, cool sea waves, a tart pine aroma, spilling in the air, is not in vain is considered one of the best Baltic resorts.

Sights of the island are worthy of a separate story. Lighthouse of Cheezwe lights the way to sailors and fishermen for almost four hundred years, and with wind mills tells inquisitive travelers about the old folk fishers and makes it possible to try to make a memorial souvenir with their own hands. In the capital of the island, one of the oldest europs, built in the XIII century, has been preserved. His museum keeps a lot of interesting exhibits, among whom - and urban legends about the old fortress.

Delicious and useful

Traveling software will not take place without visiting her restaurants with national dishes in the traditional menu. The main and most beloved Estonians of the Kushan can be enjoyed in any local cafe. On the eve of Christmas, a cold and blood sausage supplied with a lingonberry sauce will be completely in the menu, and in the carnival - buns decorated with whipped cream. Always loved here and pickled salary, roast with sauerkraut and fragrant pies, soft cheeses and rigid soups from potatoes, cabbage or pea smoked.

Estonians adore coffee and know how to cook it and drink. After many hours of walking around the attractions so nice to go to a cafe in any Estonian city, order a cup of fragrant drink with a bright Scandinavian roasting and, closing her eyes in unearthly bliss, remember the past day and re-survive especially his bright moments.
And then sigh lightweight, remembering that this evening in, fortunately, not the last ...

Gobaltia.

Estonia - state in Northern Europelocated on the east coast Baltic Sea.

On the detailed map Estonia shows that the country in the east borders with Russia (for 294 km), in the south - with Latvia (for 339 km), and in the north has a naval border with Finland.

Estonia is a major financial center and exporter of shale, phosphorites, saw-and building materials, fish.

Estonia on the world map: geography, nature and climate

Estonia on the world map is located in Northern Europe, in the Baltic States, and washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea - the Finnish bay in the north and the Riga Bay in the West. The territory of Estonia stretched out from north to south by 240 km, and from west to east - 350 km. In addition to the main continental part, the country includes 2355 Baltic Islands, the largest of them: Saaremaa, Hiyumaa, Muhu and Wormsi. The overall length of the land and sea borders of Estonia is 1633 km.

Minerals

Estonia is not rich in minerals, but there are some of the world's largest stocks in the world. Also entered the reserves of peat, phosphorites, limestone and clay.

Relief

The territory of Estonia is located on the East European Plain. The surface of the Earth is predominantly flat, which alternates with lowlands, elevations, depressions and valleys. Large form of relief of Estonia:

• Haynament Hayan in the south-east, where the highest point is not only Estonia, but also the entire Baltic States - Mount Suur-Munamy (318 meters);
• Western Saaremaa hill in the West;
• Pandiveur elevation in the north;
• Sakala and Odeaeee hill in the south;
• Har'ewly and Viru fee in the north;
• Uganda Plateau in the south;
• North-Estonian Mlintest (ledge).

Hydrography

About 7,000 rivers and streams flows around the country, the length of only 10 of which exceeds 100 km. Almost all rivers have snow, rain or lake-marsh and fall into the Baltic Sea, the moon and Pskov lakes or Lake Vydsvyarv. The longest river is vykand, a length of 162 km.

In Estonia there are 1150 lakes, occupying 5% of the country's territory and having predominantly glacial origin. The largest lake is a moon (area - 3555 km 2), on the map of Estonia in Russian, it is possible on the border with Russia, in the eastern part of the country.

Flora and fauna

Approximately half of the territory of Estonia occupy forests (4th place in Europe by forestry), and its fifth part is the swamp. Pines, birch, spruce, aspen and alder are growing in the forests.

The country lives 65 species of mammals, 331 species of birds, 65 species of fish, 15 thousand species of insects and 3,500 species of invertebrates. Most frequently encountered animals - Moose, roebles, hares, boars, bears, minks, hedgehogs; Birds - Glukhary, Ryabchiki, Tetherov. Salmon, mantle sig, bream, roach, perch, pike perch, pike and other fish are found in Estonia's water bodies.

About 1500 species of plants grow in Estonia, 83 of them are found only here: for example, a saharemic yellow bell and the Estonian Serpuha beautiful.

Extremely protected areas occupy 18% of the country. Bigger national Park - Lahemaa, located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland in Northern Estonia and includes intact swamps, rocky and pine forests, picturesque coasts.

Climate Estonia

Estonia climate is a moderate sea and moderate continental, with small amplitudes of annual and daily temperatures, under the influence of atlantic cyclones and warm-alone golfustrim. Therefore, winter in Estonia is soft for its latitudes, and the summer is cool - the average temperature of January from -2 to -6 ° C, and July from +17 to +18 ° C. The average annual air temperature ranges from +5 to +7 ° C, and the average annual precipitation is from 530 to 730 mm. Due to the proximity of the sea, the relative humidity of the air is approximately 80-85%. There is usually overcast and cloudy weather in the country.

Map of Estonia with cities. Administrative division of the country

The territory of Estonia is divided into 15 counties (Maana).

The largest cities of Estonia

• Tallinn - the capital and largest city of Estonia, which is its scientific, economic, cultural and transport center. The city is located on the north of the country, on south Bank Finnish bay. 450 thousand people live in Tallinn, the most numerous nationalities - Estonians (52%), Russians (38%), Ukrainians (4%). The old part of the city is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Tartu - The second population (93 thousand people) is a city in the country and the center of the county of the same name, located 185 km south-east of Tallinn. The woodworking industry, metalworking, mechanical engineering are developed in Tartu, and one of the leading universities in Europe is also located here. University of Tartu. Estonians make up the majority of the population of the city - 80%, Russians in Tartu 15%.
• Yoevi - The city in the northeastern part of the country and the center of the Russian-speaking County of Estonia - Ida-Virumaa. The basis of the city's economy is a shale. The population of Yoevi is 10 thousand people, of which the Russians account for 53% of the population, and on Estonians - 33%. On the map of Estonia with cities in Russian, Yoevi can be found 160 km east of Tallinn.

Republic is a state in northwestern Eastern Europe. In the north is washed by the Finnish bay, in the West - the Baltic Sea. In the east, the country borders with Russia, including on the land of Lake, in the south - with Latvia. Estonia owns more than 1,500 islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa and Hiyumaa.

The name of the country comes from the ethnonym of the people - Esta.

Official name: Estonian Republic

Capital:

The area of \u200b\u200bthe land: 45 226 sq. M. KM

General population: 1.3 MNL. person.

Administrative division: Estonia is divided into 15 Maakunds (counties) and 6 cities of central subordination.

Form of government: Parliamentary republic.

Head of State: President elected by Parliament for 5 years.

Population composition: 65,% - Estonians, 28.1% - Russians, 2.5% - Ukrainians, 1.5% - Belarusians, 1% - Finns, 1.6 - others.

Official language: estonian. The language of communication most non-Estonians is Russian.

Religion: 80% - Lutherans, 18% - Orthodox.

Internet domain: .ee.

Voltage in the power grid: ~ 230 V, 50 Hz

Country Code: +372

Country barcode: 474

Climate

Moderate, transitional from marine to continental: along the Baltic coast - sea, away from the sea - closer to moderately continental. average temperature Air in January -4-7 C, in July + 15-17 C. precipitation drops to 700 mm. per year, mainly in the autumn-winter period (the end of summer is also often rainy). Because of the effects of marine air masses, the weather is enough, and often it can change several times a day, especially in spring and autumn.

Thanks to shallow water, water in the sea and lakes quickly warms up and in July comes to + 20-24 s, the beach season lasts from the beginning of June until the end of August. The best time for visiting the country - from the beginning of May to mid-September.

Geography

The state in the northeastern part of Europe, on the southern shore of the Finnish Baltic Sea Bay. It borders with Latvia in the south and Russia in the East. In the north is washed by the Finnish bay, in the West - the Riga Bay of the Baltic Sea.

The country's territory includes more than 1,500 islands (10% of the territory of Estonia), the largest of which are Saaremaa, Hiyumaa, Muhu, Worn, Nitizar, Alena, Prangli, Kikhna, Rukhn, Abruka and Wilsandi.

The relief is predominantly plain. Most of the country is a flat moraine plain, covered with forests (almost 50% of the territory), swamps and peatlands (almost 25% of the territory). Only in the north and in the central part of the country, the elevation of Pandivera stretches (up to 166 m. On the city of Emumag), yes in the southeastern part of the country - an unintelligine strip of hilly hills (up to 318 m. On the city of Suura-Munamy). Extensive and lake network - more than 1 thousand nasty lakes. The total area of \u200b\u200bthe country is about 45.2 thousand square meters. km. - This is the northernmost and the smallest of the Baltic States.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

Estonia is located in the zone of mixed coniferous and large forests. Few indigenous forests have survived. The most fertile turf-carbonate soils, on which the broad-sized forests have ever grew, are currently engaged in Pasha. In general, there are about 48% of the country area under the forests. The most characteristic forest-forming breeds are the pine ordinary, fir ordinary, birch beard and fluffy, aspen, as well as oak, maple, ash, elm, linden. As part of the undergrowth, rowan ordinary, cherry, Iva. Less frequently, mainly in the West, in the undergrowth there are a berry, wild apple tree, Rowan, Scandinavian and Aria, Tern, Hawthorn.

The forests are of the greatest spread in the east of the country - in the Central and South Estonia, where they are represented by spruce and mixed spruce-wide forests. Pine forests grow on sandy soils in the south-east of the country. In the west of Estonia, large areas occupy peculiar landscapes - a combination of sudoneal meadows with areas of rare-resistant forests. In the north-west and north of the country, meadow vegetation is widespread. The low-layer, periodically slept coastal strip is occupied by seaside meadows. Here the specific flora is common, carrying soil salinization.

The territory of Estonia is very bursting. The swamps (mostly lowered) are common in the valleys of River Pärnu, Emayigi, Pultnsamaa, Pedi, on the shores of the miracle and Pskov lakes. The rollers are confined to the main watershed of Estonia. North of the Church of the Lake are widespread wetlands.

The flora of Estonia has 1560 species of flowering, vote and fern plants. Of these, about three quarters of species are concentrated in Western coastal areas and on the islands. A large species diversity is distinguished by Flora Mukhov (507 species), lichens (786 species), mushrooms (approx. 2500 species), algae (more than 1,700 species).

Animal world

A species diversity of wild fauna is small - approx. 60 mammalian species. The most numerous moose (approx. 7000 individuals), roerals (43,000), hares, boars (11,000). In the 1950s and 1960s, the grottoes, a noble deer, a raccoon dog were introduced. In the largest forests in many areas of Estonia, a brown bear is found (approx. 800 individuals) and Lynx (approx. 1000 individuals). Fox, forest cuckit, badger, squirrels are also found in the forests. Forest chores, ermine, caress, on the shores of water bodies - European mink and otter. Extremely common hedgehog, burzubka, mole.

Coastal waters are replete with such fishing animals as the ringed nerve (in the Gulf of Riga and the West Estonian Archipelago) and a long-edged seal (in Finnish bay).

The most varied ornithofauna. It has 331 views, and 207 species nest constantly in Estonia (approx. 60 live all year round). The most numerous deaf and mouthpieces (in coniferous forests), Waldshnepe (on the swamps), thermis (on forest glades), lyshuha, make, shepherd, swamps, krakawa and other ducks (on lakes and sea coast), as well as to dry, dyatly, Forky, Kestrel.

Under the protection there are such rare species of birds, like an eagle-Belochvost, Berkut, Smereyad, a large and small subzap, a ski, white and black stork, a gray crane. On the Islands of the Western Archipelago, ordinary Gaga, Crested Distribution, Big Crochal, Turpa, Gray Goose, Seagulls nest. Especially numerous birds during the spring and autumn mass span to the sections of summer nestings or in wintering in tropical countries.

There are 3 types of lizards and 2 types of snakes, including ordinary viper.

More than 70 species of fish and coastal waters live in fresh water and coastal waters (carp, salmon, snacks, rocks, muddy sig, bream, roach, perch, pike perch, pike, Nalim, Trout, Karas, Lin, Sazan, Salaka, Spray, Cod, Kambala, Sea Sig, eel, etc.). Many of them have a commercial value.

In general, Estonia is characterized by a careful attitude towards nature. For the purpose of studying, the preservation of the gene pool and the protection of landscapes has been created by several national parks and state Reserves and reserves. In total, about 10% of the territory of Estonia is under protection. In 1995, the Parliament adopted the Law on Sustainable Development of the country, and in 1996 the government approved the Strategy for Environmental Protection.

sights

In Estonia, tourists come first in order to get acquainted with the ancient and distinctive culture of this country, to visit wonderful songs that this land is so famous, as well as relax at the sea resorts of the Baltic coast.

Banks and currency

Monetary unit - Euro (coins 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 eurocents, 1 and 2 euros; bills 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euros).

Banks work on weekdays from 9:00 to 18:00 and in the morning on Saturday.

Currency exchange points are open on weekdays from 9:00 to 18:00, on Saturdays - from 9:00 to 15:00. Some exchange offices are open and Sunday.

Useful information for tourists

The interests for tourists are primarily numerous shops with objects of folk creativity, needlework, decorations, leather goods, souvenirs, and antiques. These stores are located mainly in the old parts of the cities and open, as a rule, from 9.00 to 18.00. In major cities, department stores and supermarkets are open to 20.00. Many shops work on Sundays. Recently, networks of stores with round-the-clock work schedule appeared.

In restaurants, hotels and taxis, tips are included in the cost of services. But you have the right to encourage the service personnel for good service additionally.

Republic state-V. in vet Europe is washed by the Finnish and Riga bays of the Baltic Sea. Name according to the ancient name of the indigenous population of Estia (presumably balt. "Living at the Water") which is first mentioned by Tacitis, I at. Already in writing IX at. Country of Estiyev is called Estland. Apparently, initially this ethnonym belonged to prouds, then to the other balt. Tribes, and later switched to the Balt. Finns - Estonians.

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

Estonia

(Eesti Vabariik), state-in on St. Europe, on the Baltic Sea coast, between Finnish and Riga bays and the mound of Oz. Pl. 45.1 thousand km², capital Tallinn ; Dr. major cities: Tartu , Narva , Kohtla-Järve , Pärnu . Population of 1.4 million people. (2001): Estonians 64%, Russian 29%, Ukrainians 2.6%, Belarusians 1.6%. Neeston population dominates St. E., in particular in the city of Narva (96%). Officer Language - Estonian. B.C. Believers - Lutherans. By the beginning of the XIII century. On the territory of E. there were 8 large lands in his estates (they were called miracle in Russia). In the XIII-XVI centuries. - under the rule of Germany (called Livonia ), then - Sweden. From 1721 as part of Russia. February 24 (National holiday) of 1918. independence was proclaimed from July 1940 - as part of the USSR as an Estonian SSR. Since 1991 - Independent Estonian Republic . Parliament (Sejm) elects the president.
Mary plain with separate hilly units. (Suur-Munamy, 318 m). The shores are strongly cut; Zap. - Lowest, sowing. - steep, sharply break down to the sea, forming a ledge Mlinte , cutting rivers with waterfalls and thresholds. Over 1500 o-GOB (9.2% pl.); Moonsundsky Arch. (The largest O-Vaarea, Hiyumaa, Mukhu, Wormsi). The climate is moderate, transitional from the marine to the continental. Winter soft, summer moderately warm. Main Rivers Pärnu, Emayigi, Narva . Lakes (ch. Obr. Ice) and VDPH. occupy 4.8% pl. Unique oz. Kaali meteorite origin on about. Saareaa Swamps - 22% pl. Forests (in Osn. Coniferous) - Over 1/3 of PL. Reserves: Viidumäe , Vilsandi, Matsalu, Nigula, Endla; 15 landscape reservations, nat. a park Lohemaa. Historical and archite. Monuments in the cities of Tallinn, Valga, Wiljandi , Võru, Kokhatla-Järve, Narva, Narva-Yõesuu, Odea , Parade, Pärnu , Racvere , Souure-Yaani, Tartu , Haapsalu. An, universities (including un-you in Tartu and 2 in Tallinn, Conservatory, villages. - Hoz. Academy). Annual singer (singing field in Tartu) and sports (center of sailing regatta in pyrite) holidays. 2.7 million tourists (1997). Resorts: Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva-Jõesuu, Kuressaare (climatic and mud); Resort and recreation areas: Võru, Vyarski (Milner. Water "Virska", healing mud), Laulasmaaaaaaa, Odea, Locks, Clooga (sandy beaches, dunes), AEGVIDU (Skiing). Mining and recycling of slate; Masher (radio and electrical engineering, devices, ship repair); Met.-arr., Chem., Forest and wood, Furniture, Cell.-boom., Text., Food. commercial; pr-in building materials. Mol.-meat alive, bacon pork-in and birds-in (1/3 products are exported). Grain and feed crops, potatoes, vegetables, fruits, berries are grown. Fish-in (herring, Salaka, spray). Sweetheart (silver fox, sandy, nutria, etc.). Art. Crafts: Production of carpets, knitted products, fabrics, wood processing, leather, metal, glass, ceramics, amber. Fussy Trank. network. Court-in (by r. Emayigi). Seaport - Tallinn; Ferry connection with Helsinki and Stockholm. Intern airport. Cash. - Estonian crown.

Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Ekaterinburg: y-factor. Under the general edited by Acad. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .

Estonian republic, state in the northwestern part of Europe. Estonia is washed from the north the waters of the Gulf of Finland, from the West - the Baltic Sea and the Riga Bay, borders on Latvia in the south and with Russia - in the east. The length of the coastline is 3794 km. Estonia includes 1521 island in the water area of \u200b\u200bthe Baltic Sea with a total area of \u200b\u200b4.2 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Saaremaa and Hiyumaa.
NATURE
Relief area.Estonia is located within the Eastern European Plain. The height of the surface gradually rises from the coasts of the Riga and Finnish bays in the eastern and southeastern directions. The average height of the surface is 50 m above U.M. Western areas and islands have medium heights less than 20 m above U.M. In the postradite time there is a stable raising of the surface at the speed approach. 1.5 m in 100 years, melting coastal zone, some of the islands have connected together or with the mainland.
In the west of Estonia, marine, abrasion, moraine and wetlands are common. In the formation of the relief of Estonia, the activities of Pleistocene glaciers played a particularly important role. In the central and southern regions, along with moraine plains, of course, the nasty shafts, the chains of Ras and Druce Girdar are traced. In the southeast at the outputs of Devonian sandstones, a hilly turpened relief with a hill of the Hahan, where the highest point of the country is the mountain of Mount Suur-Munamy (318 m above U.M.). By the south of it traced a rapid plain, formed as a result of the activities of melting glacial waters. In the north on the surface, limestone indigenous breeds of the Ordovic and Silura, exposed in steep lesions (mlints) along the entire coast of the Finnish Bay.
ClimateEstonia is transitional from marine to continental. Winter is relatively mild, summer is moderately warm. The average temperature of July is OK. 16 ° C on the coast and OK. 17 ° C in the inner areas of the country; The average season of February varies from -4 ° C to O.Saarea to -8 ° C in Narva, in the northeast. Annual precipitation varies from 510 mm in Western Islands to 740 mm in the most sublime areas of the southeast.
Soil.Due to the variety of mother breeds, hydrological regime and the conditions of relief in Estonia, a motley soil cover was formed. Thus, the south is dominated by ferrous-podzolic and ferrous-gley soils, in the northern half - typical turf-carbonate, leached turf-carbonate and apodoline ferrous-carbonate soils, alternating with sections of podzolic, podzolic-marsh and marsh soils. In the extreme north and northeast there are areas of podzolic stony soils. In general, wetlands occupy more than half of Estonia Square, and real swamps are approx. 22%.
Water resources.Estonia has a thick river network. Rivers of Northern and Western Estonia (Narva, Pyrite, Kazari, Pärnu, etc.) Pave directly into the Baltic Sea Bays, and the Rivers of Eastern Estonia have a stock into the inland reservoirs: in Lake Vydsvyarv in the south (R. Pipltsamaa) and the mound (R.Eymyigi) ) and Pskov in the East. The longest river - Pärnu has a length of 144 km and flows into the Riga Baltic Sea Bay. The most popular rivers - Narva, through which the drain of the lake goes to the Finnish Bay, and Emayigi. Shipping only R.EMayigi, and below the city of Tartu. During the spring floods, the water level in rivers is significantly increased (up to 5 m).
In Estonia, there are more than 1150 lakes and over 250 artificial ponds. Lakes have mainly glacial origins and occupy approx. 4.8% of the territory. The largest lake of the country of the mound (or peypsy) is located in the east and forms a natural and historical border with Russia. Square of the Lake Lake 3555 square meters. km, of which are 1616 square meters. km belonged to Estonia. The largest inner reservoir of Estonia - Oz. Vydsvyarv - has an area of \u200b\u200b266 square meters. km.
Vegetable world.Estonia is located in the zone of mixed coniferous and large forests. Few indigenous forests have survived. The most fertile turf-carbonate soils, on which the broad-sized forests have ever grew, are currently engaged in Pasha. In general, under the forests is approx. 48% of the country area. The most characteristic forest-forming breeds are the pine ordinary, fir ordinary, birch beard and fluffy, aspen, as well as oak, maple, ash, elm, linden. As part of the undergrowth, rowan ordinary, cherry, Iva. Less frequently, mainly in the West, in the undergrowth there are a berry, wild apple tree, Rowan, Scandinavian and Aria, Tern, Hawthorn.
The forests are of the greatest spread in the east of the country - in the Central and South Estonia, where they are represented by spruce and mixed spruce-wide forests. Pine forests grow on sandy soils in the south-east of the country. In the west of Estonia, large areas occupy peculiar landscapes - a combination of sudoneal meadows with areas of rare-resistant forests. In the north-west and north of the country, meadow vegetation is widespread. The low-layer, periodically slept coastal strip is occupied by seaside meadows. Here the specific flora is common, carrying soil salinization.
The territory of Estonia is very bursting. The swamps (mostly lowered) are common in the valleys of River Pärnu, Emayigi, Pultnsamaa, Pedi, on the shores of the miracle and Pskov lakes. The rollers are confined to the main watershed of Estonia. North of the Church of the Lake are widespread wetlands.
The flora of Estonia has 1560 species of flowering, vote and fern plants. Of these, about three quarters of species are concentrated in Western coastal areas and on the islands. A large species diversity is distinguished by Flora Mukhov (507 species), lichens (786 species), mushrooms (approx. 2500 species), algae (more than 1,700 species).
Animal world.A species diversity of wild fauna is small - approx. 60 mammalian species. The most numerous moose (approx. 7000 individuals), roerals (43,000), hares, boars (11,000). In the 1950s and 1960s, the grottoes, a noble deer, a raccoon dog were introduced. In the largest forest arrays in many areas of Estonia, a brown bear is found (oK. 800 individuals) and lynx (approx. 1000 individuals). Fox, forest cuckit, badger, squirrels are also found in the forests. Forest chores, ermine, caress, on the shores of water bodies - European mink and otter. Extremely common hedgehog, burzubka, mole.
Coastal waters are replete with such fishing animals as the ringed nerve (in the Gulf of Riga and the West Estonian Archipelago) and a long-edged seal (in Finnish bay).
The most varied ornithofauna. It has 331 views, and 207 species nest constantly in Estonia (approx. 60 live all year round). The most numerous deaf and mouthpieces (in coniferous forests), Waldshnepe (on the swamps), thermis (on forest glades), lyshuha, make, shepherd, swamps, krakawa and other ducks (on lakes and sea coast), as well as to do Forky, Kestrel. Under the protection there are such rare species of birds, like an eagle-Belochvost, Berkut, Smereyad, a large and small subzap, a ski, white and black stork, a gray crane. On the Islands of the Western Archipelago, ordinary Gaga, Crested Distribution, Big Crochal, Turpa, Gray Goose, Seagulls nest. Especially numerous birds during the spring and autumn mass span to the sections of summer nestings or in wintering in tropical countries.
There are 3 types of lizards and 2 types of snakes, including ordinary viper.
More than 70 species of fish and coastal waters live in fresh water and coastal waters (carp, salmon, snacks, rocks, muddy sig, bream, roach, perch, pike perch, pike, Nalim, Trout, Karas, Lin, Sazan, Salaka, Spray, Cod, Kambala, Sea Sig, eel, etc.). Many of them have a commercial value.
In some areas of Estonia, an unfavorable environmental situation has developed. In the north-east of the country where TPPs operating on combustible slates are operating, the air pool is contaminated with sulfur dioxide. Small reservoirs located in agricultural areas are polluted by animal life products. Coastal waters are also polluted in many places.
In general, Estonia is characterized by a careful attitude towards nature. In order to study, several national parks and state reserves and reserves have been created to study the preservation of the gene pool and protection of landscapes. In total, about 10% of the territory of Estonia is under protection. In 1995, the Parliament adopted the Law on Sustainable Development of the country, and in 1996 the government approved the Strategy for Environmental Protection.
POPULATION
For July 2003, Estonia's population was 1408.56 thousand people.
World War II and the next decades of the Soviet Board had a strong impact on demographic processes. During the war, in the first postwar years, Estonia lost a quarter of the population, mainly as a result of deportations to other areas of the Soviet Union and emigration. The main resource of population growth in the post-war decades was the mass immigration of non-ESTONTS - the process that encouraged the centralized management system and the planned economy in order to increase the number of labor resources and the socialization of Estonia. From 1945 to 1970, the fertility coefficient was constantly declining, but by July 2003 stabilized at the level of 9.24 per 1000 inhabitants. The mortality rate was 13.42 per 1000 inhabitants. The infant mortality rate in 2003 was approx. 12.03 per 1000 newborns. The emigration coefficient is estimated at 0.71% per 1000 inhabitants .. The average life expectancy in women is 76,57 years old, men - 64.36 years. In 2003, about 15.8% of the population was younger than 15 years old, 15.4% - over 65, 68.8% belonged to the age group from 15 to 65 years.
The greatest concentration of the population is observed in urbanized industrial areas of the country, and almost a third of the population lives in Tallinn and its surroundings, 10% in industrial centers of Narva and Kohtla-Järve in the north-east of the country. In the south-east there is a large university city of Tartu, and in the southwest - the resort town of Pärnu. From rural areas there is a constant outflow of the population.
Ethnic composition.In 1945, the proportion of Estonians in the population of the republic reached 93%, by 1989 decreased to 62%. In the last decade, the share of Estonians is growing (65.3% in 2000), and the share of Russians is reduced (28.1%). Among national minorities are Ukrainians (2.5%), Belarusians (1.5%), Finns (1%), others (1.6%). Estonians are evenly distributed across the country. Russian and other non-sources are focused mainly in such industrial cities as Tallinn, Narva, Kohtla-Järve, Sillamäe.
Languages.Official language - Estonian, belonging to the Baltic and Finnish branch of the Finno-Ugric family of languages. The language of communication most non-Estonians is Russian.
Religion.In the Soviet Estonia, the authorities actively intervened in church affairs, the activities of religious organizations were extremely limited, although in some temples, including the Orthodox, worship was committed. Intended in 1898 Pühthitsky Assumption Women's Monastery. From 1946 to 1982, the publication and import of religious literature was strictly prohibited. Currently, no restrictions on religious activities exist. Among believers are dominated by Lutheran (80-85%), there are also Orthodox (including Estonians), Baptists, Methodists, Seventh Day Adventists, Catholics, Pentecostals. In 1993, a special law on the activities of churches and parishes was adopted. Currently, 8 churches are registered in Estonia, 8 perception unions and 66 private parishes. In 1993, the activities of the Estonian Orthodox Church were restored, which from 1996 subordinates to Constantinople Patriarchate. The Russian Orthodox Church is also valid, subordinate to the Moscow Patriarchate. The relationship between the two Orthodox churches are one of the reasons that make the Estonian-Russian political dialogue.
Cities.In 2000, in Estonia, three cities had a population of more than 50 thousand people: Tallinn (400.4 thousand), Tartu (101.2), Narva (68.7). Tallinn is a political, economic and cultural center of the country. Tartu - University Center, in which almost half of Estonian students study. Narva and Kokhatla-Järve are industrial cities in the northeast, specializing in the extraction and processing of shale. In the south-west, on the coast of the Gulf of Riga, is Pärnu - the port and popular resort town. In 1934, only 30% of the population of Estonia lived in cities, by 1953, in connection with the accelerated pace of industrialization in the USSR, 53% of the population was concentrated. Currently, 67.1% of the country's population (data 2000) live in Estonian cities.
State device
Public administration.The first experience of the parliamentary political system Estonia received in the 1920s early 1930s. It was followed by six years of closed conservative dictatorship (1934-1940) and 50 years of one-party government as part of the USSR.
From June 28, 1992, a new constitution has been operating in Estonia in Estonia. Currently, Estonia is a parliamentary republic. Legislative power belongs to the one-palacial parliament, the Riigikogu (State Assembly), consisting of 101 deputies, who are elected by a universal secret ballot for a period of four years. Estimatory rights are endowed with all citizens of Estonia who have reached the age of 18. Parliament develops laws, ratifies and denounces international treaties, elects the President of the country, provides a candidate for the Prime Minister of Powers to form the Government of the country, adopts the state budget, on the submission of the President of the country, appoints such senior officials as chairman of the State Court and (on the last) members This Court, Chancellor of Justice, State Controller, Chairman of the Council and Members of the Council of Estonia, Commander-in-Chief of Defensive Forces.
The head of state - the president is elected by the Parliament, a qualified majority of votes (2/3) of votes, for a period of 5 years. In the event that three voting tour will not bring results, the president elects the electoral collegium. According to the Constitution, the President submits the state at the international level, invites the candidacy of the Prime Minister, it may affect the legislative activities of the Parliament, invites the parliament for the highest posts of the state apparatus.
The executive authority belongs to the government headed by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the president after the approval of his candidacy by the majority of parliamentary members.
Judicial system.The Constitution provides for an independent judicial system, including three instances: county, urban and administrative courts (first instance); District Courts (Second Instance) and the State Court (Higher Instantia). Proceedings are carried out in courts of first instance; The county courts act mainly as appellate. The state court is endowed with cassation functions and is the court of constitutional supervision. Immediately constitutional supervision is carried out by the judicial board of the constitutional supervision of the State Court. The Chancellor of Justice performs the function of overall supervision for the compliance of legal acts of legislative and executive bodies, as well as local authorities of the Constitution and other laws of the country.
The Minister of Justice controls the activities of the prosecutor's office, which is engaged in supervision of the legality of registration and prior investigation of crimes, for the legality of the police in the disclosure of crimes, for the legality of imprisonment, representation of public prosecution.
Local control.In administratively, the territory of Estonia is divided into 15 counties - Maanokonds (divided by volosts) and 6 cities of central subordination. Local tips in cities and counties are chosen by universal voting for a three-year term. The prerogative of these tips is field management and tax collection. In October 1993, the first 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 deputy places, which roughly corresponds to the share of Russians in the population of the city.
Political parties and movements.In the 1920s and 1930s, five major political parties were created: the peasant party and the association of Agriana (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 the formation of parties was overshadowed by a failed communist coupper on December 1, 1924. During the conservative dictatorship of Konstantin Pyats (1934-1940), all political parties were prohibited. Under the Soviet power, the only legal political organization was the Communist Party of Estonia as part of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU).
In 1987, in the era of restructuring and publicity, the formation of new parties and political movements began. In 1988-1991, mass political movements were especially important in the political process: the Popular Front of Estonia (the Centristian Political Organization, which required the autonomy first, and then independence from the USSR) and the Committee of Estonian Citizens, who organized the election of the delegates to the Estonian Non Amunist Congress to restore independence on The basis of the principle of legal continuity of the First Republic.
In parliament, elected September 20, 1992, nine parties and election unions were presented, including the degree of the Fatherland (30 of 101), a safe house (17 seats), the People's Front (15 seats), "moderate" (Social Democrats and Members of the Rural Centrist Party - 12 places) and the Party of Independence (11 seats). In March 1995, the opposition parties won the parliamentary elections: Coalition Party (41th place out of 101), a reform batch (19 seats) and the Centristian Party of Estonia (16 seats). For the first time in Parliament, a representative office of the Russian population of our house is Estonia (6 seats).
In 2000, the following large political parties and associations were operating in Estonia: the Centrist Party of Estonia, the Reforms Party, the Union of Fatherland, the Moderate Party, Coalition Party of Estonia (liquidated in 2001), the United Nations 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 republic has been created.
Police and armed forces.Until 1940, an effective police system was operating in Estonia, a few, but well-trained army (16 thousand people) and the civil guard of 60 thousand people. All these forces were dissolved after the annexation of the country by the Soviet Union, and their command staff was repressed.
In the fall of 1991, after the restoration of independence, Estonia began to create a system of internal security and defense. The Constitution provides for military service, but includes an alternative service for persons refusing to serve in the army on religious and other considerations. In Estonia, land army, naval coast guard, air defense, maritime border service, security service (internal and boundary) are created. Military expenditures are approx. 2% of the budget. Estonia is actively involved in UN peacekeeping and regional organizations. In 1994, Estonia joined the NATO Partnership program in the name of the world.
Foreign policy.In 1920-1930, Estonia was a member of the League of Nations. After the restoration of independence in September 1991, the country became a member of the UN and OSCE. On May 13, 1993, it was adopted in the Council of Europe, and in June 1995 he signed a preliminary agreement on entering into 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 Scandinavia countries, especially with Finland, and is a member of the founder of the Baltic States created in 1992.
ECONOMY
By the end of the 1930s, Estonia became an industrial-agrarian country. In the future, already in the postwar years, an accelerated industrialization of Estonia was carried out, which contributed to its profitable geographical position. In the 1980s, a new Tallinn major sea \u200b\u200bport Muuga. Since the early 1990s, Estonia has begun to form a market economy, to diversify the economy and revising the priorities of their foreign trade.
Estonia has the largest flavors in Europe with combustible flasks and phosphorites (explored reserves are estimated at 3.8 billion tons, forecast - approx. 6 billion tons), rich forest resources and large stocks of building materials. The slates began to be mined during the First World War. The volume of their production by 1980 increased by 9 times compared with 1950 (from 3.5 million tons per year to 31.3 million tons), but by 2001 decreased to 10 million tons. By the mid-1970s, Estonia became The world's largest producer of shale, however, due to the low level of production technology, the development of their deposits was accompanied by a strong pollution of the environment. In the 1980s approx. 80% of mined shale were used as fuel for TPP and OK. 20% - in the chemical industry.
Industrial enterprises in the country are concentrated in the largest cities. Thus, mechanical engineering, metalworking and instrumentation predominate in Tallinn, the light industry is developed. In Narva, there is a large cotton facility (Kregolm Manufactory), in Sillamäe - a plant for the production of rare metals (Silmet). The cities of Kokhatla-Järve, Sillamäe and Narva are focused on the main fuel and energy complexes. Small food and woodworking industries are evenly distributed throughout the country. The least industrialized areas of Estonia are two large islands In the Baltic Sea - Saaremaa and Hiyumaa, where farming, meat and dairy and fishing are dominated by agriculture.
National income.The growth rate of industry and agriculture of Estonia in the 1970s and 1980s decreased, and by 1990 their growth stopped at all. In 1990, GDP amounted to 5.5 billion rubles. And continued to decline in the early 1990s. His growth was outlined in 1994 and reached 5.5% in 1998. The 1998 financial crisis was reflected in Estonian economy. In 1999 she had to make a budget reduction and largely reorient foreign trade from the Russian market to EU countries. There was a decline in the economy and the decline in GDP by 1.1% in 1999. In November 1999, Estonia was adopted by the World Trade Organization. Due to the revival of the economy in 2000, GDP increased by 6.4%, according to forecasts, the same growth will continue in the coming years. The achieved economic successes are partly due to the almost complete privatization of large state-owned companies.
In 2002, Estonia's GDP was estimated at $ 15.52 billion, or 11 thousand dollars per capita. The share of agriculture in the structure of GDP is 5.8%, industries - 28.6%, services - 65.6%.
Currently, employment of the population in different sectors of the economy is distributed as follows: in the manufacturing, gas industry, energy, water supply, construction - 34.7%, in rural, hunting, forestry, fish farms - 7%, in the service sector - 58.3 % (including in education - 7.8%, in the state apparatus and defense - 5.6%).
Mining industry.In addition to combustible slates, peat is mined in Estonia, the industrial reserves of which are 1.5 billion tons. Peat is used as fuel and fertilizer in agriculture. Limestone, dolomites, sand, gravel and clays are also underway.
Energy.Estonia fully covers its energy needs at the expense of its own resources, and excess electricity exports. Soviet Estonia A significant part of the fuel and electricity produced sent to Leningrad. The energy complex is almost entirely based on the use of fossil fuels. In 1999, 7782 million kWh of electricity was produced. Part of the generated electricity goes to export.
Manufacturing industry.In 1988, the share of light industry accounted for 27% of all gross products, the food industry - 24%, mechanical engineering - 15%, logging, forest processing and pulp and paper industry - 9%, chemical industry - 9%, other industries - 16%. In the early 1990s, the volume of production decreased, but in the second half of the same decade, its growth began, which in 1998-1999 was estimated at 5-7%. Main types of manufacturing products: ships, electric motors, excavators, chemicals, cellulose, paper, furniture, building materials, instruments, textiles, clothing, shoes, food.
Agriculture.Historically, the main specialization of Estonia agriculture was meat and dairy farming.
The collectivization conducted in the late 1940s had catastrophic consequences: the wealthy peasants were smoked and exiled to Siberia, the productivity of the industry decreased sharply. In 1950-1960, Estonia agriculture was largely restored. Later, Estonia became a kind of experimental laboratory for Soviet agriculture, especially in the sphere of self-government. In 1977, the average size of collective farm or state-farm lands was 5178 hectares. In the mid-1970s, two thirds of the volume of agricultural production gave animal husbandry, one-third took place on cereals, vegetables and hay (the rabid part of the grain walked to the feed of the cattle).
Despite the measures taken, agriculture remains the most backward sector of the economy. Estonia lost the market for agricultural products in the East, and the export of products to the West is limited by different quotas. Only a third of livestock and pig breeding products are exported. Negatively reflected in the state of the industry and the slow pace of privatization of agricultural land. By 1998, OK was registered. 35 thousand private farms, the average economy was 23 hectares. In the last decade, there was a reduction in the area of \u200b\u200barable land, and at present there is approx. 25%, under pastures - 11% of the country's territory. In the structure of agriculture, meat and dairy livestock and bacon production prevails. In addition, potatoes, vegetables, grain and fruit cultures are grown.
Forest and fishing industry.In Estonia, compared to 1940, the area occupied by forests doubled and is currently 47.8% of the territory. In 1998, round forest, business wood and pulp and paper industries provided 9% of exports.
In Soviet times, when most of the collapsed and recycled fish went to the extensive domestic market of the USSR, the fishing occupied a more important place in the economy of the republic. In connection with the reduction in the fish resources of the Baltic Sea, international quotas are still strictly observed, and the annual catch of fish is approx. 130 thousand tons
Transport.The dense network of roads was created in Estonia in the Russian Board at the end of the 19th century, and then expanded in 20 V. Currently, 29.2 thousand km of highways have a solid coating. The number of cars in personal use is rapidly increasing: if in early 1994 there were 211 passenger cars per 1000 inhabitants in Estonia, then in 1997 - 428 cars per 1000 inhabitants.
The wide-resistant railway network has a length of 1018 km (not counting the paths providing specialized production transports), only 132 km of the path are electrified. In 2001, Estonian railways were privatized with local and foreign capital.
On the territory of Estonia, there is a gas pipeline with a length of more than 400 km, connecting the plant on the production of shale gas in Kohtla-Järve with Tallinn, Tartu and other cities, as well as with the Russian gas pipeline network.
In Estonia, a year-round marine message is developed. The main ports of the country: 6 ports in Tallinn, including the new cargo port of Tallinn Muuga, Paldiski, Pärnu, Haapsalu and Kunda. There is a regular ferry message with Helsinki and Stockholm. Estonian trading fleet has 44 vessel with displacement of more than 1000 gross-register tons each (total displacement 253 460 gross-register tons). In the summer, navigation on the Church of Lake and the lower stream of R.EMayigi from the mouth to Tartu. In 2002, a message opens on the route Tartu - Pskov.
Developed both internal and international air traffic. Tallinn Airport flights to many European capital and CIS cities.
International trade.The main trading partners of Estonia in the 1920s and 1930s were Germany and the United Kingdom. The country has exported food, gasoline, wood and lumber, imported machinery, metals, cotton, cotton fabrics and yarn. In 1990, about 96% of exports were sent to the RSFSR and other USSR republics and only 4% - in foreign countries. 89% of imports came from the Soviet republics, 11% from abroad.
In the late 1990s, the structure of foreign trade has undergone indigenous changes. AT last years turnover rapidly increases. So, in 2000 compared with 1999, exports increased by 52%, imports by 43%. Equipment and equipment are exported (37.4% in the export structure 2000), wood and woodworking products (13.4%), metals and products of the metalworking industry (7.1%), textiles and textiles (11.3% ), agricultural products (7.5%), chemical raw materials and products of the chemical industry (3.7%), vehicles (2.6%), mineral raw materials (2.5%). In 1999 and 2000, countries exports 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%, United Kingdom - 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%.
Machinery and equipment are imported into Estonia (38.5% in the structure of imports in 2000), agricultural products (8.6%), metals and products of the metalworking industry (8.1%), textiles and textiles (7.5%), Transport means (6.9%), chemical raw materials and products of the chemical industry (6.6%), mineral raw materials (6.1%), wood and woodworking products (1.8%). The share of major 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 monetary unit of Estonia was a brand, and from 1928 - Crohn. Estonian Bank, founded in 1919, fulfilled the main state financial institution. In 1940, Estonian banks were nationalized, and the payment facility was the Soviet ruble. In June 1992, Estonia was the first of the former Soviet republics introduced his own currency - the Estonian crown.
Society and culture
A characteristic feature of Estonian society for many centuries was the lack of a national aristocracy. Estonians lived in the townships and farms or accounted for lower classes of urban population. Only at the end of the 19th century. Intelligentsia and middle class appeared. Until 1940, the peasants prevailed in Estonia.
Unions.The first trade union associations appeared in Estonia in the 1920s and 1930s, but their activities were largely regulated by the state. In the Soviet period, trade unions began to play an important role in the life of the republic, especially in the organization of leisure workers. Trade unions have a developed network of sanatoriums, rest houses, boarding houses, tourist bases. In the mid-1990s, an independent confederation of Estonian trade unions was created in Estonia.
Religious life.In 13-14 centuries, during the reign of the Danish kings and Teutonic Crusaders, the Estonians were addressed to Catholicism. In the 16th century Estonia (Estland) became a Lutheran country, and the Germans stood up to 1918 at the head of the church until 1918. From the 18th century, after the inclusion of Estonia, Russia was distributed and Orthodoxy. 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. In Soviet times, despite the official propaganda of atheism and control by the state, religious communities managed to survive. In the late 1980s, they played a positive role in the revival of Estonian self-consciousness.
Culture
Estonian culture was formed under strong Scandinavian and German influence. The proximity to St. Petersburg also had a great influence, where many prominent Estonian cultural figures were educated.
Education system.An important achievement of the first republic was the creation of a national education system, including the highest, with learning in Estonian. In Soviet times, it helped Estonians to avoid assimilation by the Russian-speaking population.
In 1997, 224 thousand children and adolescents were trained in the primary and secondary schools of Estonia, in professional colleges - 18.6 thousand students. In schools, education in Estonian chose 67% of students, in Russian - 33%.
In 1998, 34.5 thousand students were trained in 10 state higher educational institutions of Estonia (of which 52% are women). The largest and most famous universities in 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 Arts (500 thousand students) and the Estonian Music Academy in Tallinn (500 thousand students). 80% of students studied in Estonian, the rest - in Russian. During the years of independent development, dozens of private educational institutions have appeared in the country.
Literature and art.The emergence of Estonian national literature refers to the beginning of 19 V. An essential event in the formation of Estonian literature is the edition in 1857-1861 F. Kreitvald of the National Epos Kaleviopeug (Son Kaleva). In the second half of the 19th century. Received the development of poetry. Among the poets, L. Kiduli acquired the greatest fame (which is also the founder of Estonian drama), A. Steinwald, M.Veske, M. Yunder and B. Alver. At the beginning of the 20th century Poet G.Suits headed the cultural movement "Young Estonia". In the Soviet period, poetry played a particularly important role (poets P.E.Rummo and Ya.Kaplinsky), because less under censorship. In prose 20 century. The biggest achievement is True and justice A.Tammsaare (written in 1926-1933) - a five-volume epic novel about the life of Estonians in 1870-1920. The most famous Estonian writer - Ya.Kross, whose historical novels reveal the moral problems of Estonian society. In the era of publicity, much attention was paid to the fate of deported Estonians. In the drama of the 1960s, the theater of the absurdity was of particular importance, in particular the play Game Cinderella P.Rummo.
Folklore plays an important role in the new Estonian culture. The brutal part of the oral folklore was published at the end of the 19th century, at the beginning of the next century his scientific research and analysis began. Folklore topics inspired Estonian writers, artists, sculptors, musicians.
The founders of Estonian national visual art include the artist Y. Köler (from 1861 - member of the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts) and the sculptor A.Wecenburg, who received art education outside the country. Professional learning to art in Estonia itself is possible after the foundation in 1919 in Tartu Art School "Pallas". In the 1960s, Estonian charts such as T.Wint, V. Tollli and M. Less received recognition outside the USSR.
The Estonian tradition of the holidays of the song - regularly conducted choral fees from all regions of the country for speeches in Tartu and Tallinn, had both cultural and political importance. Since 1869, 22 national folk song festivals were held (the so-called singing holidays); In recent decades, the number of speakers reached 30 thousand people, and listeners and spectators - 200-300 thousand among Estonian composers 20 V. The most famous E.Tubin (1905-1982). The following generation is especially talented A. Pärt (P.1935). The world-famous conductor N. Yarvi (P.1937), actively promoting Estonian music abroad, in 1980 emigrated to the United States.
Museums, libraries and science.Estonian national MuseumCreated in 1909 in Tartu, has a rich collection of ethnographic materials and is the largest among 114 museums of the country. In Estonia there are approx. 600 libraries. The largest of them are a library of Tartu University (5 million volumes), 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 leading scientific center of the country was the University of Tartu, where special attention was paid to research in the field of Estonian philology and literature, history, ethnography and medicine. In 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 is reorganized into the Personal Academy, and its institutions are transferred to universities.
Mass media.In 1930, 276 newspapers and magazines were published in Estonia, by 1980 their number decreased to 148. In 1990, the censorship of printed publications and the media was abolished. In modern Estonia from 15 daily newspapers (11 in Estonian), "Post STIMES" ("Postman" is most popular ("Postman", published in Tartu from 1891), Estonian Pyavelacht ("Estonian daily newspaper" is published in Tallinn from 1905) and " Schwelecht "(" Evening Newspaper ", published in Tallinn from 1944).
National Estonian Radio began broadcasting in 1924, and Estonian television - in 1955. Since 1918 there is an Estonian telegraph agency.
Sport.In Estonia there is a long-term sports culture. Already in 1920-1930, the country took part in the Olympic Games, the most successfully speaking in the struggle and weightlifting. So, Kristian Palusal was the winner in the free and classic struggle at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. International grandmaster Paul Cerez was a multiple champion of the USSR and the winner of chess Olympiads. In 1992, Estonia team for the first time after 1936 again took part in the Olympic Games.
Holidays.National holiday: Independence Day - February 24. In addition, such holidays are widely marked as New Year, Spring Day - May 1, Victory Day (Victory Day in War for Independence 1919) - June 23, Ivanov Day - June 24, as well as religious holidays: Christmas and Easter.
HISTORY
Many archaeological monuments were found on the territory of Estonia. The most ancient settlements refer to Kundan culture (Pull Pull Parking on the bank of R. Farnna, near the city of Cindy, etc.). Representatives of this culture were further mixed with Finno-Ugric tribes that came here in the III Millennium BC. From the south, and then with the Baltic tribes. Subsequently, Scandinavians, Germans, Slavs participated in the formation of the Estonian nation. Despite numerous invasions from the West, the South and East, the Estonian lands (Maakonda) remained independent to the 13th century.
Foreign domination.From the 1220s to 1918, Estonia was under a foreign rule. The southern part of 1224 was divided between the Livonian Order, Bishops of Derptic and Ezelsky. The northern part from 1238 to 1346 belonged to Denmark. In the country, Teutonic knights, landowner aristocracy and local bishops of the Catholic Church, who were supported by city traders. Estonians, conquered by Danes and Teutonic knights, remained the peasants and were increasingly fixed. Catholic faith had a weak spread among Estonians, as the Church did not show interest in their language and culture. Attitude towards religion in Estonians began to change only due to the penetration of the Estonia of the Reformation (1521) and the subsequent involvement of the population in the Lono Lutheran Church.
As a result of the Livonian War (1558-1583), Livonsky Order broke up: the northern part of Estonia was under the rule of the Swedes, South - under the rule of the Commonwealth. Saaremaa Island remained in Denmark. From 1645, the entire territory of Estonia became part of Sweden. At the beginning of the 18th century. The interests of Russia in the Baltic region faced the interests of Sweden. Northern War (1700-1721) between Russia and Sweden, accompanied by the devastating epidemic of the plague, ended with Russia's victory and the accession of Estonia and Latvia.
From the end of the 17th century School studies in Estonian was distributed, in 1739, the Bible was published for the first time in Estonian. By 1790, the population of Estonia has occurred. 500 thousand people. The abolition of serfdom in 1816-1819 became an important step towards the liberation of Estonian peasants from German dependence, but a few more decades have passed before they received the right to acquire land in property.
Estonian national movement.Agricultural reforms and development of the education system under the Emperor Alexandra II (the years of government 1855-1881) contributed to the origin of the Estonian national movement. In 1880-1890, the tsarist government conducted an administrative and cultural policy policy in Estonia. Under the influence of the revolutionary movement of 1905 in Russia in Estonia, the wave of mass workers' strikes rolled. National bourgeoisie competed with the requirement of liberal reforms. Organized performances of workers resumed in 1912 and especially from 1916.
Under the influence of the events of the February Revolution of 1917 in Petrograd, workers and soldiers in Estonia began to remove the royal officials from the authorities. In March in Tallinn and other cities, the advice of workers and soldiers' deputies were created. The governor replaced the representative of the Interim Government of Russia, the urban head.
Almost simultaneously with the October Revolution of 1917 in Petrograd in the largest industrial centers of Estonia, the advice of workers and military deputies came to power, which dissolved the provincial Zemsky Council and began to nationalize banks, industrial enterprises, transport facilities and landlords.
Education of the independent Estonian republic.Soviet power in Estonia last February 18, 1918, when its territory was occupied by German troops. Using the situation, the leaders of the Estonian intelligentsia K. Pyats, Yu. Vilms and Konik on February 24, 1918 published Manifesto "On Independence of Estonia". During the German occupation, the Soviet orders were canceled, expropriated earlier land returned to landowners. In mid-November 1918, Germany handed over the management of Estonia in the hands of a temporary government under the leadership of Paints. At the end of the same month, the troops of the Red Army were sent to the Baltic States for the restoration of Soviet power. As a result, on November 28, 1918, Narva was conquered, and the next day the state of Estland labor communion was proclaimed headed by the Chairman of the Council of the Commune I. Antelt and the head of the internal affairs department by V.Kingisepp. At the same time, throughout Estonia, with the support of the United States and Great Britain, an armed struggle against the parts of the Red Army unfolded. June 5, 1919 The Government of the Estland Labor Commune ceased to exist.
After a 13-month liberation war against Soviet Russia (November 28, 1918 - January 3, 1920) on February 2, 1920, a Tartu Mirny Treaty was signed between the RSFSR and Estonia. According to the first constitution, Estonia was proclaraged by the Democratic Republic in which the power belonged to the one-charted parliament. In December 1924, the Estonian Communist Party, acting in accordance with the instructions of the chairman of the Comintern G. Zinoviev, raised the armed uprising, which was suppressed. The rise of the national movement coincided with the global economic crisis of the early 1930s, contributed to the spread of conservative ideas in Estonia. On March 12, 1934 there was a coup. National bourgeoisie led by K. Pyats and I. Lyidoner came to power. By the fall, parliament was dissolved, and later all the current political parties were prohibited. In fact, the dictatorship mode was established. In 1937, a new constitution was developed, entered into force from 1938. She returned Estonia to parliamentarism, it was possible to choose deputies from the opposition (although the activities of political parties still remained under the ban). A president was introduced, and the first president in April 1938 was elected Pyats.
In the second half of the 1930s, a rapid economic growth was observed in Estonia. The most developed industries are shale, cellulose, phosphate - were reoriented to the German market. In the late 1930s, Germany became the main export partner of Estonia, where most agricultural products were supplied.
The further fate of Estonia was solved in August 1939, when the Soviet-German 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 agreement on mutual assistance from the USSR, in accordance with which the military bases of the Soviet Union were posted on the territory of Estonia. On June 17, 1940, the Soviet government presented an ultimatum, which in August of the same year followed the input of the Soviet troops and the annexation of the entire territory of the country.
Soviet Estonia.On June 21, 1940, the Government of Estonia was overthrown, the government of the People's Front came to his place with the support of the Soviet Army. On July 21, 1940, the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic was proclaimed, and on August 25, her constitution was adopted. The main efforts of Soviet power were aimed at rapidly meticating the former independent republic, arrests and executions began. In September 1941, the troops of fascist Germany invaded Estonia and occupied the country.
In the fall of 1944, after heavy fighting, Estonia was occupied by the parts of the Red Army. During the war, about half of industrial enterprises was destroyed, most of the livestock were destroyed, OK died. 80 thousand inhabitants, not less than 70 thousand Estonians emigrated. At the end of the war, the authorities took mass repression (many experts, public figures and wealthy peasants were arrested and deported). In 1945, private property was liquidated in the industrial sector, in 1947 - in trade. The violent collectivization of agriculture provoked armed resistance to the partisans (so-called "forest brothers"), which continued until 1953.
In the period of the Khrushchev "thaw", the Estonian Communist Party received a certain degree of independence from the CPSU in the Republic of Management. However, in the subsequent period, especially after 1968, a rollback from liberalization policy occurred. The response was the dissemination of political dissent, expressed in the requirement to provide Estonia independence and restoring the role of Estonian language in education and public life. In 1980, forty representatives of the intelligentsia, including the liberal-minded members of the CPSU, sent to the central government agencies and in the Pravda newspaper "Letter 40" - in essence, manifest against a metric system.
Restoration of independence.The mass movement for independence in Estonia began in 1987 from the protest of the public against the barbaric mining of phosphorites, which caused the country a serious environmental damage. In 1988, the People's Front of Estonia was created, as well as a number of other political organizations (including the independence party), which put forward the requirement of separating from the USSR. In November 1988, the Supreme Council of Estonia, at the head of which the Communists reformed, took 254 votes against the 7th Declaration on the sovereignty of the Estonian SSR. In 1989, the desire to achieve complete independence increased, the Committee of Estonian citizens conducted a campaign for registration of Estonian citizens. In March 1990, the newly elected Supreme Council of Estonia announced the start of the transition to complete independence, and on May 8, 1990, the Republic of Estonia was proclaimed, soon recognized by many states. September 6, 1991 Estonia's independence was recognized as the USSR, and then the United States.
The main political milestones after August 1991 were the adoption of a new Constitution in June 1992 and the election of parliament and the president in September and October 1992. After the first parliamentary elections held in September 1992, the Cabinet has formed the centered host coalition led by Martha Laar. In October 1992, parliament elected the first President of Estonia Lennart Mary, a writer and the former foreign minister, which was re-elected for this post in September 1996.
Introduction In June 1992, a new monetary unit - the Estonian crown, tied to the German Mark, stopped inflation and allowed to stabilize the economy. Thanks to the balanced budget and liberalization of prices, Estonia has achieved significant economic success for several years.
Party, who supported the Government of Laara, failed in the parliamentary elections in March 1995, when the victory won a new coalition led by Tijti, which consisted of representatives of the Coalition Party, the Union of Agrarian and the Centristian Party of Estonia. The ruling coalition continued the policies of the liberalization of the economy and integration with Western European countries. However, the Government of the Vähhah lasted only two years and was replaced by the Minority Government under the leadership of Marta Syiman. Political confrontation began to strengthen as election approaches 1999.
Despite the fact that the new electoral law is aimed at reducing the number of parties, the political system of Estonia remains fragmented. According to the results of the elections, held in March 1999, representatives of the Centrist Party of Estonia (28 seats), the Union of the Fatherland (18), the Reform Party (18), the Moderate Parts (17) and the Coalition Party of Estonia (7), the Union of Agrarians ( 7), united People's Party of Estonia (6).
In August 1994, parts of the Russian army were brought from the territory of Estonia. The Estonian government, in turn, adopted the principle of "social guarantees" with respect to about 10 thousand living in the country of the former Soviet officers, and now pensioners, and their family members. Until now, the problem of non-Estonians' citizenship has not been permitted, which moved to the territory of Estonia during the years of Soviet power.
In October 2001, the Parliament of the Republic elected the President of the Former Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Council of the Estonian SSR Arnold Ryuytel.
March 29, 2004 Estonia officially became a member of NATO.
LITERATURE
Soviet Union:. M., 1967.
Soviet Estonia: Encyclopedic Directory. Tallinn, 1979.
Vanatoa E. Estonian SSR: Directory. Tallinn, 1986.
Kahk Yu., Syilivsk K. History of the Estonian SSR. Tallinn, 1987.
- Eesti: a brief reference book.Tallinn, 1999.

Encyclopedia Krugosvet. 2008 .

ESTONIA

Republic of Estonia
State in northwestern Eastern Europe. In the north is washed by the Finnish bay, in the West - the Baltic Sea. In the east, the country borders with Russia, in the south - with Latvia. Estonia owns more than 1,500 islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa and Hiyumaa. The country area is about 45100 km2.
The population of Estonia (estimated for 1998) is about 1421,300 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: Lutheranism, Orthodoxy. Capital - Tallinn. Largest cities: Tallinn (502000 people), Tartu (114239 people), Narva (87,000 people), Pärnu. State structure - Republic. Head State President Lennart Mary (re-elected September 20, 1996). The head of government - Prime Minister T. Vykhi (in office from April 17, 1995). Monetary unit - Estonian Crown. The average life expectancy (for 1998): 64 years old - men, 75 years old are women.
Estonia announced independence on August 20, 1991. The country is a member of the UN and IMF.
Among the numerous attractions of the country can be noted: in Narva - medieval castle, Tartu is the building of the Town Hall and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe. In Tallinn - the ensemble of the Old Town with numerous cathedrals, fortress walls and medieval towers. The upper city was built in the XIII-XIV centuries. Lower city - in the XIV-XVI centuries.

Encyclopedia: Cities and Countries. 2008 .
Natural conditions
Most of the territory is a moraine plain. In the southeastern part, the strip of hilly elevations begins (height up to 318 m); The North and Central Parts takes the elevation of Pandivera (height up to 166 m). Climate transition: from marine to continental. The average temperatures of February -6 ° C, July - 17 ° C. Sedips - up to 700 mm per year. Latvia is rich in beautiful pure lakes. The largest - miracle-Pskov and Vydsvyarv. It is known to Narva reservoir. The soil is predominantly turf-podzolic, ferrous-carbonate, wetlands. Forests occupy over 40% of the territory (two thirds of them are coniferous). Reserves: Viudumee, Vilsandi, Matsalu, Nigula. Lahemaaa National Park.

Economy
Estonia is an industrial-agrarian country. Leading industry industries: engineering and metalworking (electro- and radio industries, instrument making and ship repair), chemical (production of mineral fertilizers, sulfuric acid, benzene, detergents, etc.), light (textile, etc.) and food (dairy meat , Fish, Confectionery, etc.). The country has established construction materials, cellulose, paper. Applied art: articles made of leather, metal, textiles and knitted products.
Agriculture mainly specializes in milk-meat cattle breeding and bacon pig breeding. In crop production, preference is given to grain (42.2%; barley, rye, wheat) and feed (50.5%) cultures. Grow potatoes and vegetables. Main seaports: Tallinn, Novotalline. Shipping by r. Emayigi. Latvia exports electrical and radio-electronic industries, industrial equipment, chemicals, products and consumer goods. Main Foreign Trade Partners: Russia, Vost. and sowing. Europe. Resorts: Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva-Jõesuu, Kuressaare.
History
To 1 thousand AD. The main groups of the Estegi tribes have developed, during this period the contacts of the Esta (Chud in Russian Chronicles) with Eastern Slavs are established. There are shopping centers on the site of modern Tallinn, Tartu, large settlements - Odea, Vallala, Varbla, and others. In 11th century. Esthers committed a number of campaigns to Russian and Scandinavian lands. In 11-12 centuries. Delivered unsuccessful attempts to attach Esta to the ancient Russian principalities. At 13th century The territorial associations of Maakonda have developed.
From the 13th century Estonia Object German, then Danish aggression. In the 2nd quarter 13 - mid 16 in. 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 speech of the pricillary (south) and Denmark (about. Saaremaa); In the middle of the 17th century The whole territory under the rule of the Swedes. In Nesteadt, 1721, Estonia became part of Russia. Cancellation of serfdom in Estland (1816) and Liflanda (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 (the name of Estland Labor Commune). On May 19, 1919, the Constituent Assembly proclaimed the creation of the Republic of Estonia; In March 1934, the state coup was performed in Estonia, the dictatorship was established, the parliament was dissolved, in 1935 all political parties are prohibited. In June 1940, Soviet troops were introduced into Estonia. On July 21, 1940, the Estonian SSR was formed. August 6, 1940 is attached to the USSR, part of the Estonians were deported. By December 1941, Estonia occupied by the German-fascist troops; Released in 1944. In 1991, the Estonian Republic adopted a decree on state independence of Estonia. In 2004, the country joined the EU and NATO.
Tourism and rest
Tourism in Estonia is the third article of budget revenues. Traditions of tourism generally originate from the middle of the last century. It was then that the northern and west coast has become a favorite place to rest and restore health among Russian nobility and intelligentsia. Now more and more services offer resort towns Pärnu, Haapsalu, Narva, Jesuu. A large number of tourists are visited by one more beautiful city Estonia - Tartu. Lovers of calm and measured rest attracts a small resort town of Ust-Narva, located 14 km from Narva.

Cities
Paldiski is a small cozy town in the Har'jan district of Estonia, located 49 km from Tallinn and in 80 km (by sea) from Finland on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. The city was founded by Peter I at 17 V. Since then, there are many attractions, but the most important is the Petrovsk fortress. The town is ideal for a quiet family holiday: beautiful little beaches, sea air and virgin nature - will provide a good mood.
Wiljandi - a county center in Estonia, located on a high shore stretched more than 10 km of Low Lake Viljandi. The population is 23 thousand inhabitants. The city is known since 1211. Thick fir forests on one shore and a cool rolling bank on the other, gave him a favorable position.
In 1224, the Crusaders were built here by the Order of the Castle, which is considered one of the largest in the Baltic. The city was part of the Hanseatic Union, was in the possession of Russia, Poland, Sweden. Until 1917, the official name of the city of Fellin. Despite the fact that the city is not great, he is full of various attractions and architectural monuments. For example, the city has a beautiful medieval castle (13th century), through a deep ditch of which the picturesque suspension bridge, connecting the castle with the city. The church of St. Paul has been preserved - a bright example of non-neotic architectural style. You can see many wonderful modern monuments.
Haapsalu (Haapsalu) (up to 1917 Official name Gapsal) is a tiny town on the west coast of Estonia 100 km from Tallinn. The population is 12.5 thousand inhabitants. It is considered the solar resort of Estonia, is washed from three sides by the sea. Until 1917, the city had a name Gaspal. City attractions, beautiful nature, clean air and silence of coastal pine forests, warm bay and picturesque thickets of reeds, sea bathing and healing dirt of the bays - all this attracts in Haapsalu. The city was founded in 1279. For several centuries, Haapsalu was the center of Catholic Bishopric and was a rather influential city. Here is the ancient Episcopian castle in the 16th century. In the future, Haapsalu experienced the board of the Swedes and Russians.
In 1825, he became a seaside resort, who visited the members of the imperial family. On the times of take-off Haapsalu as the resort today resembles the preserved walkway for walking along the seaside and the wooden foundation there. It is interesting to explore the sights of the town: ruins and a 38-meter watchtower of the Episcopian Castle, an alley with a memorial bench from Dolomite with a portrait of P. I. Tchaikovsky, the town hall building, a house church with a circular chapel of 14 V. It is curious to listen to the legend about the ghostly vision of the White Lady, which August night in the full moon appears in the window of the village of Doma Church as a symbol of eternal love.

National cuisine
In the assortment of Estonian national cuisine, a lot of pork dishes (pork legs, pea soup of pork legs, pork boiled with vegetables, etc.), fish (pickled salaka, soup from Salaka, marinated herring, pike perch, Cambals, etc.). Such national dishes like Flour Kama from rye, pea, wheat and barley, used with milk or yard, multigikapsad - cabbage, cooked with pork and cereal, blood sausage, blood ski dumps are very popular. Dairy products occupy a special place in Estonian cuisine. Milk, cottage cheese, Prostokvash, whipped cream, home cheese are included in the casual diet. We recommend to try acidic oatmeal.

National holidays
January 1 - New Year
February 24 - Independence Day
march / April - Easter
May 1 - Spring holiday
may / June - Trinity
June 23 - Victory Day (the anniversary of the battle of the outline)
June 24 - Ivanov Day Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary Modern Encyclopedia

The largest shale mine in Evrop. Production. The capacity is 5.4 million tons of the commodity slate per year. Located in the middle part of the Estonian Miscellaneous Shale, 20 km from the city of Kohtla Järve. Booted in 1972 together C will enrich, f koy, ... ... Geological Encyclopedia

- (Estonia), state at the east. The coast of the Baltic Sea. Annexed by Russia in 1709, again gained independence in 1918, during the Bolshevik revision in Russia. The most important event in E.'s history in the 1920s. The agrarian reform, to paradise ... ... The World History

Tallinn (Estonia) is the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Tallinn with description, guidebooks and cards.

Tallinn City (Estonia)

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, one of the largest and most beautiful cities of the Baltic States, located on the northeast coast of the Baltic Sea. It is a major port and the most interesting city of Estonia. Tallinn is an amazing combination of antiquity and modernity. The well-preserved old city is especially impressive, which is included in the list of objects. World Heritage UNESCO. The historic center of Tallinn is the charming atmosphere of the Middle Ages and the Old Hanseatic city: a city wall with towers, a weave of winding cobbled streets, ancient houses, interesting sights, monuments of history and architecture.

Tallinn can be divided into two parts: a new and old town. Old city Includes:

• tompea Hill (Vyshgorod) - medieval fortress with old streets covered with paversing, medieval houses and historical monuments and architecture that surround the fragments of the urban wall
• the lower city is adjacent to the urban wall and lies at the base of the hill.

The new city contrasts greatly with the historical center, representing the classical Soviet building, diluted with modern heights of glass and concrete.

Practical information about the city

1. The population of Tallinn is about 450 thousand inhabitants. Of these, more than 50% - Estonians and almost 40% are Russian.
2. State language - Estonian. Very common Russian. In the course also English and German.
3. Currency - euro. Almost everywhere accept bank cards.
4. Orthodox and Lutherans are dominated among religious denominations.
5. Time: Winter +2, Summer +3.
6. Visa - Schengen.

Best time to visit

Despite the fact that Tallinn is beautiful and interesting in any weather, better time Visits We consider summer and the beginning of autumn (until October). At this time, warm enough and usually good weather. Another magic time is New Year and Christmas. At this time, a fabulous atmosphere reigns in Tallinn, Christmas fairs and bazaars are held.

Geography and climate

Tallinn is geographically located in Northern Europe in the southern part of the Gulf of Riga, which is part of the Baltic Water area 80 km from the capital of Finland - Helsinki. Relief is quite plain. The highest point Tallinn (64 m) is located in its southwestern part. In the city, there are several large lakes, the largest of which Julista.

The climate of Tallinn is a moderate marine with high humidity. For Tallinn Climate Characteristics are characteristic: a sufficiently soft winter with small frost and thaws, a cool spring, warm summer and rainy autumn. The average temperature of July-August - 15-20 degrees.

History

Tallinn - the city is quite old. His story has more than 8 centuries. The first written references to the city are dating from 1154. Then there was a market and fishing harbor. In the first half of the 13th century, Tallinn was captured by the Danes. They destroyed the old settlement and began building a new one. At that time, the city was called Revel. At the same time, Tallinn was constantly subjected to Esta raids and German knights. In 1227, the German knights captured the city, but he again returned to Denmark in 1238 and belonged to the Danish kingdom for more than 100 years. Approximately by this time refers to the foundation of the coat of arms of Tallinn.

In 1346, Revel was sold by Denmark along with the part of Estland Tuton Order. From 14 to 16th century there is a period of heyday of ancient Tallinn. In 1347, Revel receives urban privileges and soon enters the Hanseatic Union. Membership in Ganse turned Tallinn to one of the richest cities of the Baltic States.

During the Livonian war, the eponymous Order has ceased to exist. In 1561, Revel squeezed to loyalty to the Swedish king. At the same time, Tallinn turned into one of the main shopping cities in Sweden, surpassing even the Swedish capital - Stockholm. During the Livonian war, the city was deposited by Poles, Danes, 3 months near him were Russian troops. The result of this military campaign there was a decline of trade, and Tallinn lost its meaning. In 1583, the city became the center of Estland Duchy as part of Sweden. The era of Swedish rule continued until the 18th century. During this period, fortress walls were erected.

After the end of the Northern War, the root entered the Russian Empire. At this time, the city becomes one of the central ports of the Russian Baltika on a par with St. Petersburg and Riga. As part of the Russian Empire Tallinn was until 1918.

In 1918, Estonia's independence was proclaimed in Revel. In 1919, the city was renamed Tallinn. In 1940, Estonia entered the USSR. In 1941, Tallinn was occupied by the Germans. In 1944, the city was released. During liberation, the city was subjected to bombardments, during which 40% of the old city was damaged. Since 1991, Tallinn - the capital of independent Estonia.

How to get

Tallinn International Airport is 5 km from the historic center. Flights from Moscow, Amsterdam, Berlin, Munich, Bremen, Oslo, Copenhagen, Kiev, Istanbul, London, Milan, Bergamo, and many other cities in Europe are flying here. From the airport to the center runs the bus ✓ 2 (every half hour, the ticket is 2 euros) and tram ✓ 4 (the ticket also costs 2 euros). Taxis to the center will cost about 10 euros.

The ferry message binds Tallinn with Helsinki. Also on the sea can be reached in the capital of Estonia from Stockholm and Peter.

You can get to Tallin on the bus from almost all major cities of Baltic States, Finland, St. Petersburg, etc. Buses come on central Bus StationLocated on the street. Lastekodu, 46. From the bus station to the center you can drive on buses 17, 23, 2, 54, 15 and trams 4, 2.

Trains come to the Baltic station, located close to the Old Town. Railway communication has been established with Moscow and St. Petersburg. The motorway is associated with Tallinn with Russia and Latvia.

Movement in the city

To move around the city you can use buses, trolley buses and trams. Public transport Tallinn works from 6.00 to 23.00 (although some lines can work until 24.00). Public transport scheme can be viewed / downloaded below. The old town is compact enough, so it is easy to move on foot. The fare when paying in cash - 2 euros. Tickets can be bought from the driver. You can also use the TallINCARD card, which gives the right to free travel in public transport for the entire period of its action or a single travel card. At the same time, the validation of the card should be carried out immediately after the start of the trip.

Shopping and shopping

Tallinn is one of the shopping centers in the Baltic States. The main trading quarter is ROTERMANN, where you can find many shops and restaurants. Many shops and shops with souvenirs and not only can be found in the old town.

Shopping centers and large supermarkets Tallinn:

• Viru Keskus, Viru Väljak 6
• Foorumkeskus, Narva Maantee
• Kristiine, Endla 45
• Stockmann, LIIVALAIA 53
• Solaris, Estonia PST. nine
• Norde Centrum, Lootsi 7
• WW PASSAAž, AIA 3 / VANA-VIRU 10
• Sikupilli, Tartu MNT 87

Where to eat

Many restaurants and cafes are located in the old town. Excellent food (including traditional Estonian cuisine) can be tried in the vicinity of Raekoja Square (Town Hall Square). Although in restaurants on this area, food on Estonian standards is expensive. Unusual and inexpensive institutions can be found in the areas of Kalamaja and Kopli.

Night life

In terms of entertainment, Tallinn is not inferior to the most fashionable european capitals. Therefore, even avid party members here will not be boring. Thallinsky clubs are usually working on Friday and Saturday and holidaysAlthough here you can always find a funny institution. Clubs open from 22.00 - 23.00 and work until 3.00 - 4.00. Plus Tallinn is its compactness, so if I did not like in one place, you can walk to another.

Attractions Tallinn

The main attraction and the symbol of Tallinn is the old town. This is a surprisingly beautiful place with a wonderful atmosphere, which is surprisingly well preserved despite all wars and adversity. Old winding cobbled streets, medieval architecture, gothic spiers churches and street lights acquaint us with the history and culture of Tallinn and give him some kind of mystical charm.

The historic center of Tallinn was formed in the period from 13 to 15th century in the Hanza era. The old town has largely saved the original layout and even the development. It was surrounded by a powerful fortress wall, the fragments of which are preserved to the present day. This place of atmospheric red tiled roofs, old stone houses, cozy courtyards and historical monuments and culture.

Initially, the old town was divided into the upper (Tompea or Vyshgorod) and the lower. The rich inhabitants of Tallinn lived in the top, in Nizhny - artisans and other poor people. The upper city was divided with the lower gate. Now these two parts form a single historical and architectural ensemble.

The main attraction of the Upper City is Tompea Castle, which towers on a rock over all Tallinn. This is ancient place of the city, founded by German knights in the first half of the 13th century. Throughout the history of Tallinn, Tompea Castle was the center of power. Now there is a parliament. For almost 8 centuries, the castle was rebuilt many times, but largely retained its original structure of the fortress of the 13-14th century. On the south side of the castle you can see the tower Long German. This 46 meter stone romance is an Estonian national symbol. On her every morning the flag of Estonia rises.

The heart of the Old Town is the Town Hall Square, which is almost a peer of Tallinn. In the perimeter, the area is surrounded by antique houses. In the summer, street cafes are located here, and in the winter a Christmas tree. Interestingly, the Christmas tree is installed on the Town Hall Square from the first half of the 15th century.

The main attraction of the square, as it should be, is the Town Hall, which is a beautiful gothic structure, built in the early 15th century. Interestingly, the Tallinn Town Hall is the only fully preserved in all over Northern Europe. The most smallest can consider the symbol of the Town Hall on the fluger - the figure of Old Thomas. In the summer, the most physically trained tourists can rise by 64 meter tower and enjoy the wonderful type of Tallinn.

Next to the Town Hall is the oldest pharmacy of Europe, which works from the 15th century.

In the old Tallinn, you can find many beautiful, romantic and atmospheric places. One of the most picturesque streets is a catharina alley. Here is the most famous souvenir market. A rather interesting place is the courtyard of masters, located on the street. Vene TN 6. Some of the oldest medieval buildings have been preserved here.

On the east side of Tompea, one of the most photographic places of Tallinn - observation coachtots are located. Here you can not only enjoy the beautiful view of the old city, but also make cool photos.

Urban Wall

The present symbol of Tallinn is the urban wall. Previously, the lower city was obscured by 4 kilometer wall with 46 towers. Approximately 2 km of walls and 20 towers survived to this day. The construction of the wall was started in the 13th century. But most of it belongs to the 16th century to the period of the heyday of Tallinn as the shopping city of the Hanseatic Union. The height of the wall is 14-16 meters, and the thickness reaches 3 meters.

In the northwestern part of the Old Town, part of the city wall with three tower is preserved. Here you can climb the wall and even take a walk on it. Beautiful view of urban walls opens with observation site On Vyshgorod (Tompea) and the Tower Square, located near the railway station. Some urban wall towers are open to visiting and contain loving exposures.

Sacral architecture

In Tallinn, you can find several masterpieces of sacred architecture.

Church of St. Nikolai is the church of the 13th century, dedicated to the patron of navigators. It is a powerful building built by order of German immigrants before the fortress walls. Interestingly, this religious structure is the only one in the lower city, which was not injured during the reformation. Church of St. Nicholas was damaged during World War II and later restored. Now is the museum. Here you can admire the unique altar, ancient tombstone and masterpieces of sacred art.

Church of St. Olava

Church of St. Olava is one of the most famous churches of the Baltic States. This is a beautiful gothic structure, known for its high tower, which in 15-16 centuries was highest building in the world. The church was built in the 13th century for the Scandinavian merchants. Modern appearance acquired in 15-16 century. At that time, the height of the spire reached 159 meters. The spire of the church was not only symbols of Tallinn, but even served as a guide for ships. Several times in the entire history of the spire damaged lightning. Now the height of the tower is 124 meters.

The Dome Cathedral is one of the oldest religious structures of Tallinn and Estonia. The accurate date of construction of the church is not known. But there are evidence of its existence in the first half of the 13th century. The church was built for the German community. The oldest part refers to the 14th century. The 69th meter baroque tower was built in the 18th century. The famous navigator IF is buried in the church. Kruzenshtern.

Church of St. Spirit (center)

Church of St. Spirit is the old church of the 14th century. In the old days, this religious structure was the main temple for ordinary citizens. The church is highlighted by an interesting wooden finish of the indoor interior and the 17th century clock on the facade.

Temple Alexander Nevsky - the main Orthodox Temple of Tallinn. The church was built in the early 20th century. It has a rich inner decoration. Under the domes installed 11 bells.

Tallinn is a city rich for interesting and distinctive places. Here is some of them:

• Cadriorg - Masterpiece Baroque, a wonderful palace complex, built by Peter I for his wife - Catherine. Now there is an art museum. The Kadriorg Palace boasts many paintings of 16-20 centuries. And, of course, he is one of the largest and most interesting artistic museums of the Baltic States.
• The building is a large guild in which the state historical Museum. This house refers to the 15th century and was the residence of the guild of the most influential merchants.
• The Kik-In de Kyok Tower is a medieval tower with a height of 38 meters, built in the 15th century. Here you can look at interesting expositions on the topic of urban fortifications and weapons.
• Looking patkuli, located in the northern part of Vigorsh, Tompea.
• The Tallinn zoo is one of the largest in the Baltic States, located in Veskimetsa Park. Great place for family holidays. Ticket cost is very democratic: adults - 5 euros, children - 3 euros.

• Tallinn Tenerbashnya. It can be climbed and look at the city from a height of 170 meters.
• Freedom Square is one of the symbols of independent Estonia. Located on the edge of the historic center.
• Hellemanna Tower - 14th century Watchtower, on which you can climb and stroll through the urban wall.
• Maiden Tower is the 14th century medieval tower with a museum and a distinctive cafe.
• Keysmae Tower is the medieval stone tower of the 14th century, which can be rented for various events.
• Virrician gates are a city gate to the Old Town, located on the Viru Street. The gate was built in the 14th century. Although most of the gate was destroyed, two guard towers were preserved, which are among the most recognizable symbols of Tallinn.
• The Kaarley Church on the Tompea Hill is one of the most beautiful "new" churches of Tallinn, built in an inororal style in the 19th century.
• Calami - fishing area, which is adjacent to the historical center. This is an area of \u200b\u200bold multicolored wooden houses, street cafes, youth and bohemia.

Of course, only these places of interest Tallinn is not limited. This city is rich in discoveries, in which you can always find something new!

Video - Tallin