Holy Spirit Church — Attraction in Tallinn

The Holy Spirit Church (Püha Vaimu kirik) in Tallinn is one of the oldest buildings in the city, with origins tracing back to the 13th century. Initially serving as a chapel for the Town Hall, it became a parish church in 1316. The church is known for its Gothic architecture, intricately carved woodwork, and the oldest public clock in Tallinn, dating back to the 17th century.

Tour:

• Exterior: Start by admiring the façade, where you will see the historic clock. The exterior’s Gothic design includes pointed arches and stone carvings. • Interior: Inside, the church houses a rich collection of medieval art, including the renowned altarpiece by Bernt Notke from the late 15th century. • Side Chapels: Explore the side chapels, each with unique decorations and historical significance. • Organ: The church’s organ, built in 1684, is still functional and used during services.

Curiosity: The church’s clock, known for its detailed astronomical dials, has been a focal point for locals and visitors since it was installed. It remains one of the most photographed features in...

SOUVENIR TIPP: get the parking clock, modelled after Tallinn's oldest clock located at the church walls outside.

My opinion: Of all the churches in town, this is the one I would visit. (Now that Niguliste is closed, anyway)

Entry costs 2 Euros (1 for students), and it is absolutely worth it.

The ⛪️ was originally catholic, but like most churches here, changed to Lutherean in the 1530s.

Since it had a special position in Old Tallinn (located in between the town hall square and the great guild hall), it was regularly frequented by rich, German merchants and nobility, who commissioned the many paintings you can see all over the wooden side panels (according to the church guide).

The altarpiece is by Bernd Notke's atelier (=famour German master from Luebeck), and a remnant of its Catholic oast. It is exquisitely beautiful.

The stunning glass windows are new, from the 1980s, by a reknowned Estonian lady artist (whose name I was told, but forgot).

Only 2 Windows next to the altar seem refurbished after the original.

Go see it. It's...

The 13th-century Holy Spirit Church (or Holy Ghost Church) is one of the most attractive churches in Tallinn. A small Gothic building with stepped gables, the church served as the Town Hall chapel before becoming the principal church of Tallinn’s Estonian-speaking population. Its whitewashed exterior and stepped gable are topped by a striking Baroque tower. The ornate clock set into the wall above the entrance, with carvings dating from the late 17th century, is Tallinn’s oldest public clock. The interior of the church is as spectacular as its exterior and features a treasure trove of religious artifacts and architecture. The Holy Spirit Church holds a particularly special place in Estonian history as the first Estonian-language catechisms were formulated here in 1535 following the...