The Museum of Estonian Architecture is in the Rotermann Salt Storage at Ahtri tn 2, between Tallinn’s harbour and the Rotermann Quarter. Its exhibitions trace Estonian architecture across different periods, with building models, plans and a scale model of central Tallinn. Start with the ground-floor displays for an introduction to the country’s architectural development, then explore the more hands-on exhibits, where you can handle building materials. The museum also presents changing exhibitions, including one on Tallinn’s role in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, when the city hosted the sailing regatta.
The Rotermann Salt Storage
The museum occupies the Rotermann Salt Storage, a former salt warehouse built in 1908. The limestone building is one of the district’s notable historic structures. It was reconstructed in 1995, with additional floors added for the museum.
The setting places the collection between Tallinn’s harbour and the modern Rotermann Quarter. The surrounding area was once industrial and is now being converted for shops, offices and homes. The old warehouse and newer development make architecture part of the visit before you reach the galleries.
Models and plans of Tallinn
The permanent displays follow Estonian architecture through different periods, including the country’s more recent history. Models help make the buildings and urban plans easier to read. Look for the scale model of central Tallinn and examples of buildings from across the city.
The collection includes plans and drawings, among them proposals from the Soviet period for large-scale changes to central Tallinn. Some designs imagined tower blocks and extensive structures reshaping the city centre. The galleries also show plans from the 1920s and models of buildings that were built, as well as projects that remained unrealised. One model depicts a proposed seaside sanatorium for Pärnu that was never constructed.
The museum’s holdings extend beyond the displays. Its collections include architectural drawings and sketches, photographs, models, furniture and art. The galleries provide a way to connect individual buildings with the larger plans that shaped, or might have reshaped, Estonian towns.
Interactive displays and changing exhibitions
The ground-floor displays are a useful starting point for understanding the evolution of Estonian architecture. The more interactive exhibits include videos and activities centred on buildings and materials. In the basement, hands-on elements let visitors explore and feel different building materials, which can make this part especially engaging for children.
Temporary exhibitions bring different subjects into the museum. One has focused on Tallinn during the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow, when the city hosted the sailing regatta. Exhibitions on the upper floors can change, so check what is currently on view if a particular topic interests you. An audio guide is another option for adding context as you move through the displays.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Museum of Estonian Architecture?
It is at Ahtri tn 2 in the Rotermann Salt Storage, between Tallinn’s harbour and the Rotermann Quarter.
What can you see at the museum?
Exhibitions cover Estonian architecture across different periods and include building models, plans, a scale model of central Tallinn and hands-on displays about materials.
Is the museum suitable for children?
The museum has interactive exhibits, including a basement area where visitors can handle building materials.
Does the museum have changing exhibitions?
Yes. Temporary exhibitions cover different subjects, including Tallinn’s role in the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Check what is on before visiting.
