Tag: Tallinn Estonia

Where in the World Are We?

We ae in Tallinn, Estonia.

TALLINN, ESTONIA
A Little Guide to Estonian Superstitions
Superstitions are as varied across the world as culinary delights. Discovering those of different countries is always an amusing, if not delicious, experience. Estonia is no exception. While sharing several beliefs with neighboring Latvia and Lithuania, it has its unique customs that one might marvel at or even adopt, should they bring good fortune…

In Tallinn, dropping a knife is said to signal the imminent arrival of a male visitor. It’s customary not to shake his hand over the threshold to avoid bad luck. One should also avoid placing bags directly on the ground, as it symbolizes imminent monetary loss.

Marriage is a crucial subject of numerous superstitions. A child born on the last day of the week is believed to marry late or perhaps not at all. Dropping a piece of cake while eating portends that you may never marry. Once successfully wedded, upon entering their new home, the bride should walk through all the rooms, throwing either ribbons or coins to ensure marital bliss.

Finally, here’s a fun one to try with a friend: when two people say the same thing simultaneously, they must make a wish, then link pinkies and count aloud to three. After that, they say either “Adomas” or “Iewa,” which means Adam and Eve, respectively. If both people say the same word, it’s believed that the wish will come true.

SIGHTS
• St Catherine’s Passage (Katariina Kaik)
• Air Museum
• Kiek in de Kök
• Niguliste Kirik
• Kadriorg Park
• Tallinna Teletorn
• Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral.

SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The most distinctive Estonian souvenirs are traditional Estonian handicrafts, including knitwear, linen, ceramics, leather, and wood, particularly juniper wood. Most of Estonian design can be seen in small galleries, design boutiques, and fashion stores.
Tuljak has a long history. The restaurant building itself is a good example of modern Estonian architecture from 1964. During the Soviet era, Tuljak cafe served the people of Tallinn.

Today’s Activities – The Best of Tallinn
We explored the fascinating castles, squares, cathedrals, and streets of medieval Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tallinn, Upper-Old Town, Toompea Hill and Castle, Pikk Hermann Tower, Huge Estonian Flag
We took a walking tour through medieval Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval town centres in Europe. See Toompea Hill, named after the massive, medieval stone castle that is now home to Estonia’s parliament. Adjacent to the castle is Pikk Hermann, a medieval tower approximately 150 feet in height, featuring a huge Estonian flag.

Palace Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Mosaics, Dome Church, Tombstones, Sarcophagi
Next, your stroll continues to the Palace Square, site of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox basilica,
complete with golden crosses and black onion-shaped domes, was built in the late 19th century during a period of ‘Russification’. We stepped inside the Cathedral to view the icons and mosaics lining its walls. Next, we walked to the Dome Church. The oldest church in Tallinn was first mentioned in a letter to the Pope dated 1233. Also known as St. Mary’s Cathedral, it has served as the burial site for nobility since the 15th century. The Cathedral has a fascinating collection of noble tombstones and stone sarcophagi.

Lower-Old Town Stroll, St. Catherine’s Passage, St. Catherine’s Guild
Leaving the Cathedral, we walked to a viewing platform for views over the spires of Tallinn’s Lower Old Town. Medieval Tallinn was the northernmost member of the powerful merchant alliance known as the Hanseatic League, and the Lower Old Town is the heart of the historic trading city. After a refreshment stop at a local restaurant near Town Hall Square, stroll through the Lower Old Town and St. Catherine’s Passage. This medieval walkway is home to St. Catherine’s Guild, a collection of artisan studios featuring Baltic glassware, quilts, hats, and other traditional crafts. Following your tour, enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs and gifts.

3:00 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson: Stunning Stockholm:

Explore Sweden’s magnificent capital city.

6:15 Farewell Show with your Silversea Singers and Dancers Venetian
Followed by a farewell speech from Captain Ivo Botica and our Farewell Crew Parade. See all the crew who have been working hard to make your voyage memorable.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant