Dome Church

Toomkirik or The Lutheran Dome Church, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin, is the oldest edifice in the town and mainland Estonia. Originally established by the Danes after the crusades, it is mentioned as early as 1233. The Dome Church has always served as the Church of the Spiritual Head of the country. Originally it was Roman Catholic and consecrated in honour of Virgin Mary, but became Lutheran in mid-16th century during the Reformation. Thoughout centuries it was largely reserved for the aristocrats of the region. The plan of the building is simple with three aisles. The central nave is elevated like in a basilica and the vaults are supported by austere square columns bare of ornament. The exterior of the church is mostly 15th century. In contrast, the spire is late 18th century baroque. In the great Toompea fire in 1684 the church suffered considerable damage but was later restored. Inside the church you can admire numerous epitaphs in the shape of carved and painted coats of arms. The church also has a beautiful late 19th century organ. There are also a few stone monuments and some beautiful tombstones that belong to the aristocratic elites. But not all who found their last resting place here were nobles, there are also tombstones of shoemakers and butchers among others. Also well known is the tomb of a man by the name vot Thuve who enjoyed all life’s pleasures but above all the company of beautiful women. While on his deathbed the sins he had committed in his lifetime caught up with him and he asked to be buried near the door of the Dome Church so everybody who wa entering or leaving the church would step on his grace. That way he hoped to atone for his sins. Altough some say that he just wanted to secure a peek under every skirt that passes may he rest in peace!