Valjala Stronghold

Valjala Stronghold is a medieval hillfort on Saaremaa island with an oval shape and a courtyard area of about 3,600 square meters. The outer stone walls reach heights of 5 to 8 meters and enclose an inner courtyard with a limestone-lined well.

The stronghold emerged during the Viking era and was later controlled by local Estonian rulers before facing outside invaders. In early 1227, it fell to the Livonian Brothers after a major siege, marking a turning point in the island's history.

The site takes its name from the nearby village of Valjala and reflects how residents organized their settlement in medieval times. Objects found during excavations reveal the daily activities and crafts that once took place within these walls.

The site stands about 700 meters south of Valjala village and is accessible by foot or car. The well is visible to visitors, and the grounds offer solid paths to explore the fortifications.

Excavations since the 1890s have revealed crossbow bolts and iron nails showing contact between local people and foreign warriors. These discoveries demonstrate how different cultures left their marks on this place.