Karksi Castle Ruins
Karksi ordulinnus
The Livonian Order castle ruins on a high bank of the Halliste River valley, next to the Karksi church, whose tower leans conspicuously.
Karksi Castle is located in the town of Karksi-Nuia, about 29 km south of Viljandi. Built by the Livonian Order in the 13th century on a hillfort of the ancient Estonians, it was one of the strongest strongholds in southern Estonia. It was burned by Lithuanian forces several times, rebuilt each time, and finally abandoned after the wars. Today the surviving walls, moats and gate remains stand on the high bank of the ancient Halliste River valley, with wide views. The Church of St. Peter on the same hill, built in the 18th century, is known for its noticeably leaning tower. The site is open all day and free to visit, and it can be combined with the nearby Halliste St. Anne’s Church and the Mulgi countryside for a half-day self-drive route.
Opening hours
All day (free)
Nearby sights
- Halliste St. Anne's Church
- Heimtali Museum
- Loodi Nature Park
- Lake Viljandi
- Viljandi Suspension Bridge
- Viljandi Castle Ruins
- Estonian Traditional Music Centre (Folk Music Barn)
- Ugala Theatre