Tallinn becomes Hanseatic town, again

Medieval Days festival will take place from 8 to 11 July 2021 AD

In 1285, Tallinn, then known by its German name Reval, became the northernmost member of the Hanseatic League – powerful commercial and military alliance of German-dominated market towns in central and northern Europe. Strategically placed at the crossroads of trade between Western and Northern Europe and Russia, encircled by fortified walls with mighty defence towers, the bustling medieval city was a sight to see.

Medieval Market, Town Hall Square

Catching a glimpse of Tallinn’s Hanseatic glory is possible even in the nuclear age, albeit in just four days during the annual Medieval Days festival. From 8 to 11 July, Town Hall Square will undergo transformation as a lively Medieval Market brimming with goods, concerts, performances, and medieval entertainment to the delight of town folks and guests from far-off lands. In the medieval market, vocal sellers will be lauding their stock, from wrought iron and textiles, wood and glass, jewelry and toys, to clothes and succulent food.

Medieval Village and Reval Tournament, Niguliste Hill

This year, acclaimed master craftsmen and their apprentices will gather again on Niguliste Hill to showcase their skills and sell their goods. Children who would like to see firsthand what being a real warrior was like before videogames were invented, can learn some fighting skills in the Little Knight School. 

And on Saturday, Niguliste Hill will become the stage of Reval Tournament where the best medieval fighters will literally cross swords. The spectacular event is organized by Nordbug, historical martial arts association. 

Promoting national crafts and traditions 

The aim of the Medieval Days project is to raise awareness of the importance of the medieval Old Town of Tallinn, highlighting its beautiful architecture and traditions through playfulness, medieval music and drama. Serving as a popular tourist attraction, the festival also aims to promote Estonia’s national crafts. 

The main organizer of the festival is the Estonian Folk Arts and Crafts Association, with Hopneri Maja and MTÜ Ajad ja Tavad in charge of the cultural programme. The day-by-day breakdown of events during Medieval Days 2021 can be found at the festival’s website.