Tallinn #09- Oleviste Kogudus (St. Olaf’s Church)

Oleviste Kogudus (St. Olaf’s Church) – A Towering Symbol of Tallinn

Oleviste Kogudus, also known as St. Olaf’s Church, is one of the most prominent landmarks in Tallinn’s Old Town. Originally built in the 12th century, the church is dedicated to St. Olaf, the patron saint of Norway, and is renowned for its towering steeple, which once made it the tallest building in the world during the 16th century, standing at 159 meters.

The church’s Gothic architecture is striking, with its impressive spire dominating the city’s skyline. Today, the spire stands at 124 meters, and visitors can climb the narrow staircase to the viewing platform, which offers stunning panoramic views of Tallinn’s Old Town, the harbor, and the distant Baltic Sea.

Inside, Oleviste Kogudus has a relatively simple, yet elegant, interior compared to some other European churches, reflecting its medieval origins. The church is still an active place of worship and also hosts regular concerts, thanks to its excellent acoustics.

St. Olaf’s Church has played an important role in Tallinn’s history, not only as a religious site but also as a beacon for sailors navigating the Gulf of Finland. Its towering spire served as a landmark for ships approaching Tallinn’s busy port for centuries.

Our 360-degree photo of Oleviste Kogudus captures the magnificent steeple and the church’s surroundings, allowing you to virtually experience this historic site. Whether you’re climbing the tower for its incredible views or admiring its Gothic architecture, St. Olaf’s Church is an essential stop in Tallinn’s Old Town.