Viljandi Castle Ruins
Viljandi ordulinnus
Once the Livonian Order's second-largest stronghold, its scattered walls cover the rolling castle hills above the lake. The ruins are the emblem of Viljandi.
In 1224 the Sword Brothers seized a hill fort belonging to the local Estonians and built a stone castle here. It later became the Livonian Order's second-largest stronghold after Riga. It was destroyed during the Polish–Swedish Wars in the early 17th century and afterward served as a quarry. Today the surviving walls of the monastery-style main keep, arches and an old well are spread across three hills, the Lossimäed, separated by deep valleys, covered with trees and overlooking Lake Viljandi. The ruins are open free at all times. In summer, the open-air stage here hosts the Viljandi Folk Music Festival and medieval festivals. The site is next to the red suspension bridge and the traditional music centre. Allow an hour or two to wander slowly, including the lakeside path. There are many slopes and steps, so watch your footing.
Opening hours
All day (free)
Nearby sights
- Viljandi Suspension Bridge
- Estonian Traditional Music Centre (Folk Music Barn)
- St. John's Church
- Kondas Centre
- Viljandi Old Town
- Viljandi Museum
- St. Paul's Church
- Viljandi Old Water Tower