Fat Margaret

Fat Margaret Tour — 1 mighty cannon tower

Fat Margaret is Tallinn’s thickest cannon tower — built in the 16th century next to the Great Coast Gate. Walk with me through this fortification and discover how the medieval city defended itself.

On the harbour-facing edge of Tallinn’s Old Town stands the majestic Fat Margaret (Paks Margareeta), a 16th-century artillery tower. Throughout its long and storied history, the tower has served many different roles, including use as a storehouse for provisions and even a prison. The tower’s modern “awakening” took place in preparation for the 1980 Moscow Olympic Yachting Regatta, when the ruined structure was beautifully renovated to become the grand home of the Estonian Maritime Museum.

A true turning point came in 2015, when the rare remains of a 14th-century cog were discovered buried in the sand at a construction site in the Kadriorg district. Today, this medieval Hanseatic ship is the undisputed centrepiece of the museum’s permanent exhibition, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see centuries-old maritime heritage with their own eyes.

In addition to the unique cog find, you can admire fascinating models of sailing, steam, and motor ships, and dive deep into their history—and that of Estonian seafaring—through interactive displays. During the summer season, a rooftop café awaits visitors on the tower’s fifth floor, where you can enjoy delicious refreshments alongside a million-dollar panoramic view of the Tallinn harbor and the Old Town.

The Fat Margaret tour can be combined with a “Legends of Tallinn” tour or a guided visit to the Seaplane Harbour.

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• Tallinn Town Hall
• Legends of the Old Town

Information regarding ticket prices  can be found here.