Whenever I visit Estonia there are three main things I like to do - 1) eat Estonian food, 2) buy Estonian products and 3) take photographs.
There are many interesting landmarks in Estonia that make great photo opportunties. They are usually culturally and historically significant in some way and finding them is a great way to learn more about Estonia and its past. Here are eleven of Estonia's best statues and monuments.
1. Freedom monument in Tallinn
2. Sculpture Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde in Tartu
Two great writers born three years apart, the sculptures depict what could have been a very witty conversation.
3. Monument to Kristjan Jaak Peterson in Tartu
Kristjan Jaak Peterson (14 March 1801 – 4 August 1822) was an Estonian writer who is considered to be the founder of Estonian national literature. He studied at the University of Tartu and on his birthday, 14 March, Mother Tongue Day (Language Day) is celebrated in Estonia.
4. Suur Toll and Piret sculpture in Saaremaa
Statue of mythological hero, Suur Toll and his wife Piret in Kuressaare. The sculpture was created by renowned Estonian sculptor Tauno Kangro in 2002.
5. Father and Son Sculpture in Tartu
The sculpture "Father and Son" is a symbol of the relationship between different generations, where children are increasingly growing apart from their parents. The bronze work was made by sculptor Ülo Õun and depicts the sculptor himself and his son Kristjan when the boy was one and a half years old.
6. Monument in memory of the WWII refugees in Puise
7. Anton Hansen Taamsaare monument in Tallinn
Anton Hansen Tammsaare (1878-1940) was one of Estonia's most beloved authors. He used to enjoy visiting the former New Market in Tallinn to observe people. The monument is located in Tammsaare Park where the New Market once stood.
8. Paul Keres monument in Narva
Paul Keres was Estonia's greatest chess player. The grandmaster was born in Narva in 1916 and this monument was made to commemorate his 100th birthday.
9. Statue of Peter Carl Faberge in Pärnu
The famous jeweller was born in Pärnu in 1915 and this bronze statue was erected in his hometown to mark his 100th birthday.
10 The Memorial to the Victims of the Estonia Disaster in Hiiumaa
The sinking of MS Estonia on the 28th of September 1994 was one of the worst peacetime martime disasters in history. 852 people lost their lives during the voyage from Tallinn to Stockholm. The bronze bell monument is a memorial to the victims and rings by itself during strong winds.
11. Onnelik Korstnapuhkija - The Happy Chimney Sweep in Tallinn
Located in Tallinn's Old Town near Karja Gate Square, the happy chimney sweep is believed to bring good luck if you meet him and even more so if you rub his buttons.
