Kuressaare is located in the southern part of Estonia's largest island of Saaremaa on the shores of the Gulf of Riga.
The first mention of Kuressaare dates back to 1381. Then in the territory of the modern city the castle of clerics rose. In the 16th century, Kuressaare was part of Denmark, in 1645 - Sweden, and in 1721 became part of the Russian Empire. Until 1917, Kuressaare was part of Russia and was called Ahrensburg. In the years 1952-1988. the city was renamed Kingisepp in honor of the Estonian Communist Victor Kingisepp
How to get there
In Kuressaare there is its airport, which accepts Estonian Airlines flights from Stockholm and Tallinn. The airport is located 3 km from the city.
There is a ferry service between Kuressaare and the mainland. Departure from Virtsu, arrival in Kuivastu, located on the island of Muhu, which is connected with Saaremaa dam. Regular buses run from Kuivastu in Kuressaare through a dam.
From September to May, a ferry connection between Saaremaa and Hiiumaa (Triigi-Syru) is organized. In winter, an ice road is built between Saaremaa and the mainland, and you can reach the island by car.
Search for tickets to the city of Tallinn (the nearest airport to Kuressaare)
Beaches Kuressaare
Kuressaare beach is characterized by a sandy coastline and is located along the bay, due to which the water here warms up well. The official beach season lasts from June 1 to August 31. Every day, rescuers work on the beach, a playground with attractions is built for children.
Book popular Kuressaare hotels at the best prices
| Johan Design & SPA Hotel from 2 895 rub Kuressaare Kauba 13 | Grand Rose SPA Hotel from 3 791 rubles Kuressaare Tallinna mnt 15 | Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa from 3 377 rubles Kuressaare Lossi 15 |
| Johan Hotel & Spa from 2 482 rub Kuressaare Kauba 13 |
Entertainment, sightseeing and attractions Kuressaare
The Old Town is notable for the building of the Town Hall, built in 1670, and the Episcopal Castle, which is considered to be the only fully preserved castle-fortress in this Baltic. Near the Town Hall towers of the former fire station tower built in 1911 - now the restaurant is located in it.
The second half of the 13th century is considered the date of the first Kuressaare castle, which has not survived to this day. In the 1330s, the construction of a new castle began, which from the middle of the 14th century served as the residence of the Saarel-Länemaisk bishop, replacing Haapsalu
Nowadays, in the chambers of the castle there is a collection of the Saaremaa museum, and from the windows of a cafe opened in one of the towers, a beautiful view of the city. In summer, in the park surrounding the castle, various events are held - concerts and festivals, as well as artisan workshops. The museum is open from May to August from 10:00 to 18:00, from September to April from 11:00 to 18:00 (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), the entrance fee is 5 EUR
The branch of the Saaremaa Museum - home (Avenue of Valimaa, 7) dedicated to the life and work of the Estonian linguist Johannes Aavik and the local cultural figure Joazep Aavik. The museum is open daily, except Monday and Tuesday from 11:00 to 18:00, the entrance ticket costs 1 EUR.
Interest is also represented by the Kuressaare Highlands, built during the Swedish rule and being the only surviving building of its kind in Estonia. It was built in 1663 in the Baroque style, commissioned by the Swedish tycoon Magnus Gabriel de la Gardia. Used for weighing goods
In the church of St. Lawrence, built in the 17th century in the style of classicism, is the only organ in the city. The interior of the church is notable for its pulpit and altar made of dolomite, as well as the baptismal stone preserved since the Middle Ages
Kuressaare Kuressaare, which opened its doors in 1889 for the first time, now houses a restaurant and a summer theater. By the way, at one time the kursala was awarded the title of the best structure of the Estonian SSR in 1988
In 30-40 minutes drive from Kuressaare in the town of Angla there is a hill with windmills dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. This is the only hill with mills in Saaremaa, which preserved its original appearance. All windmills are open to visitors, and one can even observe the miller's work
Prices are as of February 2012 Photo Kuressaare (17)