St. John's Church
Viljandi Jaani kirik
A former Franciscan monastery church with a 25-bell carillon, the largest in Estonia, in its tower. Concerts are held here often.
St. John’s Church was originally the church of a 15th-century Franciscan monastery. After the Reformation it went through wars and reconstructions, was used as a warehouse in the Soviet period, and was reconsecrated in 1992. The plain, white-walled Gothic church has a bright and quiet interior. Its tower holds the largest carillon in Estonia (25 bells), which plays bell music specially composed by composer Tõnu Kõrvits. The church has excellent acoustics and is an important concert venue during the Folk Music Festival. Located on Pikk Street between the castle ruins and the old town, it is within walking distance. Admission is free, and opening hours vary with the season and events.
Opening hours
Open during the day in summer; irregular in other seasons
Nearby sights
- Estonian Traditional Music Centre (Folk Music Barn)
- Kondas Centre
- Viljandi Castle Ruins
- Viljandi Museum
- Viljandi Old Town
- Viljandi Suspension Bridge
- Viljandi Old Water Tower
- St. Paul's Church