Niguliste

The Niguliste museum-church in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town is a 13th-century fortress church — the only one in Tallinn that managed to outwit the iconoclasm of the 16th-century Reformation. Thanks to this, Niguliste remains home to exceptionally valuable medieval works of art that offer visitors a priceless insight into our cultural heritage.

The crown jewel of the Niguliste museum is without doubt Bernt Notke’s “Danse Macabre“, considered Estonia’s most precious work of art from the Middle Ages. The painting on the wall of St Anthony’s chapel is more than just art – it is a philosophical reflection on our mortality. Sitting on the bench in front of the work, visitors can delve into the depths of their soul and ponder: if death called you to the final dance at this very moment, have all the important words been said and deeds been done, or would something remain gnawing at your soul?

The Niguliste museum’s double-winged high altar was completed in the 15th century in the workshop of the famous Lübeck master Hermen Rode. It is one of the largest and best-preserved late-Gothic altar retables in all of Europe. In its closed position — on the outer wings — the altar depicts scenes from the lives of St Nicholas, the prototype of Santa Claus, and St Victor, Tallinn’s patron saint.

Although the church took a heavy hit during the March 1944 bombing, it was rebuilt by 1984 and operates to this day as a museum and concert hall exhibiting Estonia’s most outstanding medieval and early modern church art.

After the tower’s thorough renovation, Niguliste offers experiences at height as well. You can now take a glass lift for a comfortable ascent, but for the more athletic I definitely recommend taking the historical staircase. On the second level is a curious place where bells that have lost their former homes — bells that once served many different functions — have found a place. What makes it more exciting still is that visitors can ring a bell themselves. From the top of the tower opens one of Tallinn’s most enchanting views over the Old Town and the sea.

Traditionally a Christmas tree is brought to Niguliste for the first Advent, and every year it is decorated by Shishi.

Until 27.09 the exhibition From Restorer to Conservator is on display at Niguliste. Part II of the same exhibition can be admired at the Kadriorg museum. A visit to the Niguliste museum can be combined with the 7 Legends of the Tallinn Old Town tour.

Ticket prices can be found here.

Opening hours here.