Attractions & museums
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    St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

    The large and richly decorated Russian Orthodox church, designed in a mixed historicist style, was completed on Toompea Hill in 1900, when Estonia was part of the Czarist Empire. The church is a legacy of the active Russification policy that took place in the 19th century and was built directly opposite Toompea Castle with the aim of demonstrating Russian supremacy in Estonia. For many locals, it still symbolizes that. The well-maintained cathedral is one of the most monumental examples of Orthodox sacral architecture in Tallinn. Tallinn’s most powerful ensemble of church bells is located in the church towers. It comprises 11 bells, including Tallinn’s largest bell, which weighs 15 tonnes. Carillons by the entire ensemble can be heard before services. The interior, which is decorated with mosaics and icons, is worth a visit.

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    TripAdvisor® Traveler Reviews

    TripAdvisor logo tripadvisor rating 4.5 of 5

    based on 3586 reviews

    • Large and Impressive

      tripadvisor rating 4 of 5
      July 5, 2024 By Thomas V

      We ate lunch just down the street from this traditional cathedral. It is quite impressive and pretty from the outside. It was late in the day and it was not open. Check the signs or online to find... Read more comments

    • Nice cathedral in Toompea Hill in upper old town. Easy to spot when arriving by Ferry

      tripadvisor rating 5 of 5
      June 30, 2024 By CodyDC

      While visiting Tallinn, walked by the cathedral a few times while walking around old town. The cathedral was easy to spot when I arrived by ferry from Helsinki. Inside of the cathedral is nice as... Read more comments

    • Ornate Interior and Exterior

      tripadvisor rating 5 of 5
      May 23, 2024 By Mike O

      Free admission, donations welcomed. Stunning ornate interior; we stood for 10 minutes absorbing the feeling. Exterior looks to be in "line new" condition; bright fresh paint. Iconic place.