The Church of Holy Spirit

Tallinn, Estonia

The Church of Holy Spirit is the only sacred building from 14th-century Tallinn preserved its original form. The church was originally founded as part of the neighbouring Holy Spirit Almshouse, which tended to the town's sick and elderly. Throughout Medieval times it remained the primary church of the common folk. First Estonian-language sermons were held there, and the famous Livonian chronicler Balthasar Russow worked as a teacher there in the late 16th century.

Before entering the church, take a look at the façade, where there is clock that has been measuring time since the 17th century. The interior is richly decorated an exquisite example of wooden sculpture from the Gothic era. The altar, commissioned from Berndt Notke in 1483, is one of the four most precious medieval works of art in Estonia. Services in English are held every Sunday at 15:00. Musical hours are held each Monday starting at 18:00.

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Address

Pühavaimu 2, Tallinn, Estonia
See all sites in Tallinn

Details

Founded: 1319
Category: Religious sites in Estonia
Historical period: Danish and Livonian Order (Estonia)

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Wisanu Tuntawiroon (6 months ago)
Holy Spirit Church in Tallinn is a captivating example of medieval architecture and spiritual heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, this church dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest buildings in Tallinn. Its striking white exterior, with a unique clock on the façade, makes it instantly recognizable and invites you to step inside.
Highway Video (7 months ago)
I didn’t go inside, and the exterior of the Holy Spirit Church is fairly ordinary. However, it’s in a prime location, very close to Town Hall Square and right across from the oldest bakery in Tallinn. The striking clock on the façade still makes it one of the more picturesque sights in the Old Town.
Paul Harhen (7 months ago)
I went there very early in the morning to photograph the outside of the building as it was still floodlit and the street lights were on. Its more impressive than the Town Hall building in the square nearby in my view.
Cláudio Cardona (10 months ago)
The Holy Spirit Church (Püha Vaimu kirik) in Tallinn is one of the oldest buildings in the city, with origins tracing back to the 13th century. Initially serving as a chapel for the Town Hall, it became a parish church in 1316. The church is known for its Gothic architecture, intricately carved woodwork, and the oldest public clock in Tallinn, dating back to the 17th century. Tour: • Exterior: Start by admiring the façade, where you will see the historic clock. The exterior’s Gothic design includes pointed arches and stone carvings. • Interior: Inside, the church houses a rich collection of medieval art, including the renowned altarpiece by Bernt Notke from the late 15th century. • Side Chapels: Explore the side chapels, each with unique decorations and historical significance. • Organ: The church’s organ, built in 1684, is still functional and used during services. Curiosity: The church’s clock, known for its detailed astronomical dials, has been a focal point for locals and visitors since it was installed. It remains one of the most photographed features in Tallinn’s Old Town.
Nikos Gkekas (3 years ago)
The 13th-century Holy Spirit Church (or Holy Ghost Church) is one of the most attractive churches in Tallinn. A small Gothic building with stepped gables, the church served as the Town Hall chapel before becoming the principal church of Tallinn’s Estonian-speaking population. Its whitewashed exterior and stepped gable are topped by a striking Baroque tower. The ornate clock set into the wall above the entrance, with carvings dating from the late 17th century, is Tallinn’s oldest public clock. The interior of the church is as spectacular as its exterior and features a treasure trove of religious artifacts and architecture. The Holy Spirit Church holds a particularly special place in Estonian history as the first Estonian-language catechisms were formulated here in 1535 following the Reformation.
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