Freedom Square

Freedom Square (Vabaduse väljak) sits at the edge of Tallinn’s Old Town, where the medieval streets meet a broad modern plaza. Its central landmark is the glass Victory Column, topped by the Cross of Liberty and dedicated to Estonia’s War of Independence of 1918 to 1920. Look across the square to St. John’s Church, and notice how the open space contrasts with the Old Town’s historic buildings. The square is also used for public gatherings, festivals and national celebrations, so it can be a useful starting point for exploring nearby sights.

The Victory Column and Estonia’s independence

The square’s defining monument is the Victory Column, a glass structure topped by the Cross of Liberty. It commemorates Estonia’s War of Independence, fought from 1918 to 1920. The column stands at the edge of the plaza, where its modern form is easy to distinguish from the older buildings around the square.

Freedom Square has also had a changing role in public life. During the Soviet era it was known as Victory Square and hosted military parades. Today, gatherings, festivals and national celebrations take place here.

A link between the Old Town and the modern city

Freedom Square lies just outside Tallinn’s Old Town, making it a natural place to begin a walk through the historic streets. The plaza’s open scale feels different from the narrower lanes nearby. St. John’s Church stands beside the square, adding another architectural point of interest.

For a different view, Harjumägi park overlooks the plaza. The Victory Column is illuminated at night, when the square’s memorial takes on a more prominent presence.