Located in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town, the Town Hall Square has long been a central hub of activity. First mentioned in 1313, the town square is lined with beautiful old medieval buildings and is where some of the oldest streets in the city start. Tallinn's Town Square is one of the most lively and social places in the city and has witnessed much over the centuries. Various markets, festivals, carnivals, wedding ceremonies, film shoots, as well as executions have all taken place on this site.
In the past, Tallinn's market square has been known by many different names. In 1371 it was known by the Latin name 'Forum' then 'Old Market' (Vana Turg) in 1442 and later 'New Market' (Neu Markt). At the end of the 18th century, the town square was called the 'German market' (Deutscher Markt) then the 'Swedish Market' (Schwedischer Markt). In 1923, after independence, the square was officially named Raekoja Plats.
