Põltsamaa Castle, Medieval fortress in Põltsamaa, Estonia.
Põltsamaa Castle is a medieval fortress in the town of Põltsamaa with a square stone structure and three rectangular towers. The fort is surrounded by defensive walls, a moat, and multiple gates that open toward the Põltsamaa River.
The Livonian Order built this defensive fortress in 1272 as a stronghold in a strategically important region. From 1570 to 1578 it served as the residence of Duke Magnus of Holstein, showing how the castle shifted its role over time.
The castle displays exhibitions about the region's heritage, including pieces of the renowned Põltsamaa blue-white porcelain from the 18th century. This pottery tradition shaped the town's identity and shows how craftsmanship passed through generations of local artisans.
The castle is open daily from May through September, when visitors can explore the towers, the convent building, and the gate structure. In winter months the site operates on reduced hours, so it is worth checking ahead before planning a visit.
The castle's observation tower marks a point on the Struve Geodetic Arc, a major 19th-century measurement project that spanned multiple countries. This triangulation network helped scientists make early calculations of Earth's shape and size.
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