Observation Deck

Overview

The Observation Deck of the Tallinn TV Tower, known locally as 'Teletorn', offers an unparalleled perspective of Estonia's vibrant capital, Tallinn. Standing proudly at 314 meters (1,030 feet), the Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest non-building structure in Tallinn and indeed, all of Estonia. The primary enclosed observation deck is situated at a height of 170 meters (558 feet) on the 21st floor, providing expansive 360-degree panoramic views. Higher up, at 175 meters (574 feet) on the 22nd floor, visitors can find an open viewing platform and a restaurant. Located northeast of the city center in the Pirita district, the tower is not merely a telecommunications hub but a significant cultural landmark that captures the spirit and history of Estonia.

History & Cultural Background

The Tallinn TV Tower was originally constructed for a very specific international event: the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, where Tallinn hosted the sailing regatta. Construction commenced in 1975, and the tower was officially inaugurated on July 11, 1980, just in time for the games. This monumental project was a testament to Soviet engineering, with architects David Baziladze and Juri Sinis, and engineers Vladimir Obydov and Yevgeny Ignatov at the helm. Interestingly, some of the equipment intended for the Vilnius TV Tower was redirected to Tallinn to ensure the completion of this Olympic site on schedule.

Beyond its initial purpose, the Tallinn TV Tower played a pivotal role in Estonia's journey to regain independence. In August 1991, during the Soviet coup attempt against Mikhail Gorbachev, Soviet military forces sought to seize the tower to silence Estonian broadcasting. However, a courageous group of Estonian citizens and staff formed a human shield and barricaded themselves inside, managing to maintain crucial contact with the outside world. This act of defiance allowed Estonian radio and television to continue broadcasting, making the tower a powerful symbol of national resistance and the restoration of Estonian independence.

The viewing platform was initially open to the public until 2007 when it was closed for renovations to meet modern fire safety standards. After an extensive modernization project, the tower proudly reopened its doors to visitors on April 5, 2012, with a refreshed interior designed by KOKO Arhitektid.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Tallinn TV Tower's Observation Deck apart is its comprehensive visitor experience. The main enclosed observation deck at 170 meters offers breathtaking 360-degree vistas that sweep across the historic Old Town of Tallinn, the expansive Baltic Sea, and the surrounding green landscapes. On exceptionally clear days, one can even glimpse the distant coastline of Finland, including the lights of Helsinki.

For those seeking an extra thrill, the tower features floor-level glass panels on the observation deck, allowing daring visitors to look straight down 170 meters to the ground below. Additionally, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, the 'Walk on the Edge' experience is available on the 21st floor at 175 meters, where participants, secured by safety harnesses, can walk along the outer ledge of the tower, offering unobstructed views and an unforgettable sense of height.

The tower also hosts interactive exhibitions that delve into Estonian achievements across various fields, from science to culture, providing an engaging and educational complement to the panoramic views. Above the main observation level, the restaurant on the 22nd floor, situated at 175 meters, offers visitors the chance to savor Estonian-inspired cuisine while enjoying the same spectacular backdrop, making for a truly elevated dining experience.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Tallinn TV Tower is steeped in intriguing stories and unique details. During the dramatic events of August 1991, when Soviet paratroopers attempted to seize the tower, local defenders managed to prevent its shutdown. Remarkably, some bullet holes from this tense standoff are still visible at the base of the tower, serving as a tangible reminder of Estonia's fight for freedom.

Originally, the architects had envisioned a rotating section for the observation deck, similar to its counterpart in Vilnius, but this plan was not implemented. The construction itself utilized innovative techniques for its time, such as the sliding mould method for the reinforced concrete 'trunk,' leaving visible concrete rings every 2.5 meters on the tower's shaft. The tower's immense structure, weighing approximately 20,000 tonnes, was built using 17,500 tonnes of concrete developed by scientists at Tallinn Polytechnic Institute.

It is fascinating to learn that the tower's tip can sway by up to 1.5 meters due to wind and solar heating, and the observation platform itself can sway by up to 90 centimeters, a testament to its robust engineering. The tower also offers a 'Good Weather Guarantee', allowing visitors to return within two months if their initial visit is hampered by poor visibility, ensuring everyone gets to experience its iconic views.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Tallinn TV Tower begins with a swift elevator ride, whisking guests up to the 170-meter observation deck in just 56 seconds. Upon arrival, visitors can engage with interactive multimedia screens that provide deeper insights into the surrounding areas, displaying historical views and interesting facts about the cityscape. Beyond the breathtaking views, the tower offers various interactive experiences, including virtual reality simulations that allow a 'flight' around the tower and even recording a news clip in a mock TV studio.

For those interested in a more in-depth understanding, guided tours are available, offering historical narratives and 'behind closed doors' secrets of the tower in multiple languages. The tower is designed to be accessible, accommodating wheelchairs and strollers, and even welcoming service animals. For travelers looking to extend their outing, a combined ticket for the Tallinn TV Tower and the adjacent Tallinn Botanic Garden can be purchased, offering a blend of panoramic views and natural beauty.