Saint Catherine's Monastery, Dominican monastery in Vanalinn district, Tallinn, Estonia.
Saint Catherine's Monastery is a Dominican monastery in the old town with sections of its original stone walls and passages still standing. The complex features a walkway that connects Vene and Müürivahe streets, preserving the medieval street pattern.
Dominican monks founded the monastery in 1246, establishing one of Tallinn's oldest structures. The Reformation brought destruction in 1524, leaving behind the ruins visible in the old town today.
The monastery served as an educational hub in medieval times, with its brewery and hospital supporting the local population's daily needs. You can still sense how these functions shaped community life in the old town.
You can enter through Saint Catherine's Passage or via the entrance at St. Peter and St. Paul's Cathedral. The site is accessible from the old town streets and offers views of the partially restored church interior.
Inside you will find carved tombstones belonging to monks and townspeople that have survived for centuries. Music recitals now take place in the partially restored church, blending medieval space with modern performances.
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