Candles will shine bright in memory of the victims of the second mass Soviet deportation in Estonia

Today marks 70 years since the March deportations in Estonia. In 1949 Estonia lost 3% of its population when the Soviet army forcibly removed over 22,000 people from their homes and sent them to remote parts of Siberia. Many of them perished in the harsh conditions, some were lucky to make it back home. In total Estonia lost 20% of its population due to the Soviet occupation that lasted 51 years.

Memorial events will take place all over Estonia today and in Estonian communities abroad. We will never forget.

Estonia's Sauna marathon - BBC Travel Show

Estonian word search puzzle

Inspired by Emakeelepäeva (Mother Tongue Day) last week, I designed this word search puzzle featuring popular Estonian words. The words can be found up, down, forwards, backwards and diagonally. The puzzle is free to use, there is no copyright. I hope you like it!

Tammsaare's Truth and Justice sets new record as most-watched film in Estonia

In celebration of the Republic of Estonia's centennary, a new film version of Tammsaare's "Truth and Justice" was produced. The film was released in cinemas on February 22 and has set a new record. It is now officially the most watched film in Estonia since the country regained its independence in 1991.

During the four week period after the films release the total cinema attendance was 205,595. This figure has eclipsed the previous all-time record held by James Cameron's "Avatar," which saw cinema attendance in Estonia at 194,327.

According to film production company Allfilm, 51,239 people saw "Truth and Justice" in cinemas during its opening weekend. That number rose to 90,550 in the first week.

"Truth and Justice" was written and directed by Tanel Toom as still screening across Estonia. No doubt Estonians living abroad are eager to purchase the DVD.

Tallinn 800 – First Recorded Mention of the City

This year marks a milestone in Tallinn’s history.  On the 15th of June the city will celebrate its 800th anniversary, commemorating its first recorded mention. 

Tallinn was first mentioned in 1219 in the Livonian Chronicle of Henry. The chronicle describes when the Danish fleet led by King Valdemar II landed near Lindanise Castle (Toompea Hill) in June 1219. According to the chronicle a battle took place there on the 15th of  June 1219 where the Danes achieved a difficult victory against the Estonian forces. 

The city of Tallinn got its name during this time of Danish rule. In Danish Tallinn means 'Taani-linn' - Danish-town.

Tallinn will celebrate the 800th anniversary of its first recorded mention with different outdoor events, exhibitions and themed festivals. 

Estonian Dance Celebration - "Tuljak"

Such a wonderful sight to behold. Estonia truly has some beautiful tradtions. Inspirational!

Head Emakeelepäeva! Happy Mother Tongue Day!

Today we celebrate our beautiful Estonian language! Sometimes when I am travelling I come across people speaking Estonian in foreign lands and it's always a joy to hear!

The double vowels found in the Estonian language is one of its charms.