Viljandi Suspension Bridge
Viljandi rippsild
A 50-metre red iron-chain footbridge spanning a deep ravine in the castle park. It is Viljandi's most photogenic city landmark.
This 50-metre footbridge was built in 1879 by the Felser company of Riga. It was first erected over the moat of the Tarvastu castle ruins. In 1930 the estate owner, Baron von Mensenkampff, gave it to Viljandi, and the following year it was moved to the gorge of Castle Hill, about 15 metres deep. It was renovated in 1995. The deck is painted red, and the cast-iron towers and riveted steelwork preserve the 19th-century character. It is a nationally protected architectural heritage site. The bridge sways slightly as you walk. From the deck you can photograph the ravine and the ruins, and from the valley floor you can capture the entire red bridge. It is free to cross at all times and is usually visited together with the castle ruins.
Opening hours
All day (free)
Nearby sights
- Viljandi Castle Ruins
- Estonian Traditional Music Centre (Folk Music Barn)
- St. John's Church
- Kondas Centre
- St. Paul's Church
- Ugala Theatre
- Viljandi Old Town
- Viljandi Museum