Patarei prison, Former prison and fortress in Kalamaja, Estonia
Patarei is a large concrete and brick structure along Estonia's northern coast containing hundreds of cells, corridors, and administrative spaces. The site shows multiple building sections from different periods that document its evolution from a military fortress to a prison.
Construction began in 1828 as a coastal fortress ordered by the Russian Empire to protect shipping routes toward St. Petersburg. During Soviet occupation, it was converted into a major prison holding political prisoners and other inmates.
The name Patarei comes from Estonian, referring to its original fortress purpose as a coastal battery. Visitors can see how spaces like exercise yards and common areas shaped daily life under Soviet rule.
The site is best explored through guided tours, as many areas remain unrenovated and require careful navigation. Plan for several hours and wear sturdy shoes since you will encounter stairs, narrow passages, and uneven floors throughout.
A mysterious room within the complex was used for psychological experiments on inmates, a little-known chapter of Soviet prison practices. This discovery offers visitors an unexpected glimpse into experimental and ethically questionable methods that remained hidden behind the walls.
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