Over the centuries there has been some debate regarding the origin of marzipan, the sweet treat made from almonds and powdered sugar. Many believe that marzipan was first made in Tallinn whilst others claim it was created in Lübeck, Germany. Medieval records dating back to the 15th century reveal that marzipan was invented in Tallinn's Town Hall Pharmacy in 1422. Originally marzipan was only made in pharmacies and considered a medicine.
During the time of the Hanseatic League when Tallinn was known by its former Germanic name, Reval, many journeymen came to Estonia. These journeymen were craftsmen who had completed their apprenticeships and travelled to increased their skills and experience so they could eventually one day become a master craftsman. According to local legend, marzipan was invented by a journeyman who worked at the Raeapteek, Tallinn's Town Hall pharmacy.
In Raeapteek price lists from the year 1695 marzipan is recorded under the name of Panis Martius (also Marci Panis). There is also an order from the 17th century made by this pharmacy to a sculptor from The Netherlands Arent Passer for stone moulds for marzipan. One of the moulds depicts the big coat of arms of Tallinn with lions and the other the small cross-shaped coat of arms.
Today, the Maiasmokk Cafe in Tallinn produces some of Estonia's finest marzipan products. For over two centuries Maiasmokk has been delighting customers with their wonderful marzipan window displays that are all hand-painted. Maiasmokk offers painting workshops for anyone interested in the creation of marzipan.