Sightseeing in Parnu - what to see. Complete travel guide

This is an ancient and picturesque city with rich history, as well as a famous resort with well-developed infrastructure. In addition to comfortable hotels and inns you will find here numerous resorts and holiday homes, so your vacation will be not only exciting, but also beneficial for health. Parnu is full of interesting sights to visit every tourist should have.

Town hall built in 1797 is the most famous architectural monument of Parnu. This is a true example of classicism. In this Town hall often take place festivals and concerts, and anyone can attend them. The oldest building of the city is Red Tower. It was built in the 15th century. This is just a small part of fortifications that have survived till our days. The construction of another building - Tallinn gate - took place in the 17th century. This is one of few defensive structures, which have survived during three centuries. All other facilities have been destroyed as useless.

Church of St. Catherine is the most large-scale religious place of interest of Parnu. The church was built in 1768. As you might guess from the name of this church, it has been named after Catherine II, by the order of which the building has been started. The halls of this church are rich in beautiful decorations. The façade’s appearance is also very elegant - all walls are painted in white, and cupolas are green. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

You can get acquainted with the history of the city during your excursion to Museum of Parnu, which works starting from 1895. Here you will find valuable collections of historical artifacts. The museum gets new items all the time, so the city’s authorities plan to expand the museum’s space, which simply cannot accommodate all new exhibitions.

Through the middle of the historical district of Pärnu runs a charming Rüütli Street. It is famous for its architectural monuments, the variety of nice restaurants and souvenir shops. Beautiful old houses of different epochs have survived here. 19th century red brick houses look especially spectacular. In summer, the facades of many buildings are decorated with fresh flowers and ornamental plants.

The most beautiful monument of architecture is villa Ammende. It was built in 1905 and over a hundred years of its existence has repeatedly changed its status. Originally, the three-story villa belonged to a wealthy local merchant - Herman Leopold Ammende. After his death, a summer casino was opened in it, that was replaced by a prestigious club afterwards. Later, the villa became the location of a sanatorium. After a time, a library was founded in it. Despite numerous reformation, the villa retained part of its unique antique decoration. Now, it is a prestigious hotel, that houses one of the most popular restaurants on its top floor.

The most unusual sight of Pärnu is its mole, the length of which is about 2000 meters. It is built from huge boulders and extends far into the sea. This picturesque place is considered one of the most romantic in the city. There's a good tradition of those in love kissing in the middle of the mole. They believe that separation will not affect them. Amateurs of historical excursions should definitely see the beautiful castle of Paide. Regrettably, it is only partially preserved to this day. The very first castle in its place was built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order. Originally, it was called Weisenstein. For hundreds of years the castle remained in the center of bloody battles. During certain periods it was under the rule of the Swedish, Russian and Polish armies. The most preserved fragment of the ancient castle is its octagonal tower, that houses a small historical museum nowadays. On the last floor of the tower, is an observation deck.

In a beautiful building with a glazed facade is the Museum of Modern Art, opened in 1992. Currently, its collection has more than 400 exhibits. Besides paintings by contemporary artists, you can see the works of Jean Rustin, Judy Chicago, Edward Lucy-Smith and Pablo Picasso.