Tallinn is the newest "gem" of European tourism, a true medieval walled city, a bit reminiscent of Dubrovnik. It has been a trading city since the XIIIth Century when it became a member of the Hanseatic League. Over the centuries it has been ruled by Sweden, Russia, USSR (twice) and Germany.
"Three Sisters," Merchant homes
Olevi Residence, a 14th Century hotel, is on the edge of the Old Town, just beyond the reach of the tour groups. The town has been pretty much ours alone in the early morning hours before the Helsinki ferry arrives. We have walked in the rain along the worn, cobbled streets, marveling at the merchants' homes, churches, medieval walls and towers and Town Hall, visible from almost everywhere. Shops seem to lean towards woolen sweaters and jade jewelry, with enough bakeries and coffee shops to feed the masses. In truth, except for Saturday, there weren't all that many tourists about.
Tallinn is target rich for photographers, even with the dreary weather. My Sigma lens, less than a year old, is on its last legs. I am nursing it along until we get to Germany where I have had a new Canon lens shipped. Hope it makes it.
