Punane torn, Medieval fortified tower in Pärnu, Estonia.
The Punane torn is a fortified brick tower located at the southeast corner of the old city walls of Pärnu. The structure has multiple levels connected by stairs, leading up to an attic floor where a panoramic cinema wraps around the space.
The structure was built in the 15th century as part of the defensive system protecting the medieval town of Uus-Pärnu. Over time it served different purposes, including as a prison and later as storage for the community.
The name comes from its distinctive red brick color that sets it apart from other fortifications in the area. Inside, visitors encounter displays about the lives and trades of people who lived in the medieval city.
You can climb all levels of the structure to view the exhibits and the panoramic cinema at the top. The stairways are steep and narrow, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time moving between floors.
The lower floor contains historical reconstructions showing how the tower looked when it was in active use during medieval times. These recreated spaces offer a direct sense of how people lived and worked inside the fortification.
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