Haljala church was built originally between 1430-1440, replacing a wooden church from the previous century. The octogonal tower was completed in the end of 15th century. Haljala church was damaged in 1558 during the Livonian war and in 1703 during the Great Northern War when it was burnt down by Russian troops.
In 1831 it was damaged again when the tower and roof burnt down. The tower was rebuilt in 1865 at which time it acquired its present shape and size. The pulpit is made by Johann Rabe in 1730’s and organs by Gustav Normann in 1852.