Pärnu is known as the summer capital of Estonia with inviting beaches, a packed calendar of cultural events, great accommodation and a rousing night life. The town is full of fantastic sights. Here are a few highlights. The Town Hall at Uus 4 is a former dwelling house from 1797. Czar Alexander I at one time owned the building. In 1839 the old medieval Town Hall was torn down and this building took over. The Red Tower at 11 Hommiku is the only remaining bastion of the town wall making it the oldest building in Pärnu. The tower's original name, dating from 1543, was Rode Vangen Thorn (Red Prison Tower). In Koidula Park in the center of Pärnu is the Monument to Lydia Koidula, a sculpture by A.Adamson from 1929. Lydia Koidula is Estonia's most famous poetess and was a critical figure during the National Awakening. She also authored the first Estonian language play. The Tallinn Gate at the corner of Mere pst and Kuninga in Pärnu is the only surviving town wall gate from the 17th century in all the Baltics. The gate was called the King Carl Gustav Gate until the Russians defeated the Swedes in 1710. Erik Dahlberg is the most likely author as he created similar gates in Narva and Riga. The building underwent restoration in the late 1970s. A short walk from the town center is the luxurious Ammende Villa. The Villa's original owner was a wealthy Pärnu merchant named Herman Ammende and the Villa was his supreme display of wealth. The beautiful Art Nouveau design is a wonderful example of Russian Architecture from the beginning of the 20th century. The Villa is surrounded by a romantic park faithfully renovated according to photos from the beginning of the century. Ammende Villa now functions as a top class hotel and restaurant.

Sightseeing in Estonia | Interactive Map | County of Pärnumaa