St. Catherine's Passage, street in Tallinn, Estonia
St. Catherine's Passage is a narrow cobblestone street in Tallinn's old town lined with buildings from the 15th to 17th centuries. Stone arches span the alley at different points, and old tombstones are mounted on one wall, recalling the nearby St. Catherine's Monastery.
The passage was once called Monk's Alley because it connected a Dominican monastery to the surrounding streets, built over 700 years ago. Over the centuries it remained a place for craftsmen, and it was restored in 1995 to keep its medieval appearance.
The name of the passage comes from an old monastery, and many workshops here continue craft traditions that have existed for centuries. Visitors can watch artisans at work making ceramics, glass, or jewelry, offering a glimpse into the life and skills of the city.
The passage is open year-round and sits just a few minutes' walk from the main sights of the old town. It's best explored on foot, as it is narrow and has uneven cobblestones that can be slippery in winter.
The passage houses several artist workshops where visitors can watch craftsmen at work directly, blowing glass or shaping leather. On warm days, many workshops open their doors so you can look in without entering the small shops.
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