Iconic Old Town church to receive new observation tower and glass elevator
Text Mark Taylor
Photo Andrei Chertkov
Next week work will begin to install an observation deck and glass elevator in the iconic Niguliste Church in Tallinn’s old town. The work will also see the opening of a mezzanine floor for the displaying of artwork and other purposes.
To create the 360 observation deck in the 105m high tower, currently battened down windows will be opened up to provide views across the old town and beyond. Although it is normally not possible to install a lift in a protected and historic building of this type. Because a lift was installed during the Soviet era, this is possible in Niguliste without breaching regulations. Providing a rare opportunity for those in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility to reach the higher parts of such a church.
The mezzanine floor will see works to the staircase, beams and climate control system, which will preserve and protect the artworks on display.
The construction work is expected to last until at least the end of 2022, with the earliest proposed opening time of Christmas this year. Depending on progress, the opening may not take place until some time in 2023.
Tallinn Airport has set a new all-time monthly passenger record. Nearly 390,000 passengers passed through the airport in August, 16% … Read more
2.9.2026 | Estonia
Who Is Ülle Madise, Estonia’s New President-Elect?
Today, 2 September, presidential elections took place in the Riigikogu, or Estonian Parliament. Ülle Madise, the Chancellor of Justice, was … Read more
28.8.2026 | Estonia
A Hundred Reasons to Visit Põltsamaa
What comes to mind when you hear the name Põltsamaa? Perhaps its famous mustard, a castle seen in social media … Read more
23.8.2026 | Estonia
This Is How West Harbour Is Being Transformed Into the Hub for Travel to Tallinn
The Helsinki–Tallinn route is one of Europe’s busiest international sea routes, and for many of us, travelling by ferry to … Read more
20.8.2026 | Estonia
Happy Anniversary, Estonia and Estonians! Palju õnne, Eesti ja eestlased!
“Süda, kuis sa ruttu tõusedkuumalt rinnus tuksuma,kui su nime suhu võtan,püha Eesti—isamaa!” …or, freely translated: “Oh heart, how fiercely … Read more
18.8.2026 | Estonia
Now Confirmed: Tallinn Is Getting Its Own Sea Spa
A year-round sea spa featuring outdoor and indoor pools alike will be built in the Kalasadam coastal area next to … Read more
15.8.2026 | Estonia
5
School Trips in Estonia Open Young People’s Eyes: Estonia Offers Experiences, Learning, and Time Together
What would a school trip be like where pupils descend into an underground mine, try their hand at medieval knightly … Read more
14.8.2026 | Estonia
Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association: Rising Costs Are Now Driving Restaurants Out of Business
Estonia’s hotels have attracted a fairly good number of customers this summer, but revenue per room is falling. At the … Read more