Keila-Joa manor house, Gothic Revival manor house in Lääne-Harju Rural Municipality, Estonia.
Keila-Joa manor house is a Gothic Revival structure near a major waterfall in Lääne-Harju Rural Municipality, featuring pointed arches and carefully worked stonework typical of that architectural style. Architect Andrei Stackenschneider designed the building in 1831 with decorative elements that distinguish it from other manor houses of the period.
Built in 1831 for Count Alexander von Benckendorff, the manor became a gathering place for Russian nobility during the imperial era. Following Estonia's independence in the 20th century, the building changed hands and served different institutional purposes.
The name derives from the Estonian word "Keila" for rapids and "Joa" meaning waterfall, reflecting the site's deep connection to the landscape. This naming tradition shows how the local geography shaped the identity of places in the region.
The site sits near a waterfall and is accessible by foot through paths that wind through the surrounding landscape. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and wear sturdy shoes, especially if exploring the walking routes in the area.
A small hydroelectric station operates on the river near the manor, generating power while blending historical architecture with modern energy production. This facility shows how old sites can serve contemporary needs.
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