St. Nicholas' Church, on Niguliste Street in Tallinn's Old Town, is now the Niguliste Museum, part of the Art Museum of Estonia. Its medieval church setting holds a collection of religious art, including Bernt Notke's famous Dance of Death, as well as exhibitions on Tallinn's history. Look up at the Gothic interior, then take the glass elevator to the tower's viewing platform for views across the Old Town. The church also hosts organ concerts, which make use of the main hall's acoustics.
From medieval church to museum
St. Nicholas' Church was founded in the 13th century and dedicated to Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors and merchants. German merchants from Gotland established it as part of their settlement in Tallinn. The building took on its present form between 1405 and 1420, when it was rebuilt as a basilica.
The church was badly damaged during World War II and later restored. It reopened as part of the Art Museum of Estonia in 1984. Today, the Niguliste Museum is known for its collection of medieval religious art. The building retains its church architecture, though it no longer serves as a regular place of worship.
Medieval art and the Dance of Death
The collection includes altarpieces, icons, silver objects and medieval tombstones. Its best-known work is a surviving section of Bernt Notke's Dance of Death, displayed in Anthony's Chapel. The painting was originally much longer; around a quarter of the 30-metre work remains. Its figures show death approaching people from different walks of life.
Allow time to look closely at the works and their setting in the church. A permanent exhibition also focuses on Tallinn's history. Temporary exhibitions bring in contemporary art, photography and sculpture, so the displays can include work beyond the medieval collection.
The tower and concerts
A glass elevator takes visitors up the church tower to a viewing platform with broad views over Tallinn's Old Town. The lift has limited capacity, so a queue can form. The tower can also be reached by stairs. One account notes that the upper viewing area is enclosed by glass, which can cause reflections in photographs.
The museum holds organ concerts in the main hall. The room's acoustics are a draw in their own right, and a concert adds live music to the visit. Check the museum's programme if you would like to time your visit around a performance.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is inside St. Nicholas' Church?
The Niguliste Museum has medieval religious art, including altarpieces, icons, silver objects and tombstones. It also displays Bernt Notke's Dance of Death and has exhibitions on Tallinn's history.
Can you go up the tower?
Yes. A glass elevator takes visitors to a viewing platform with views over Tallinn. Stairs are another way to reach the tower.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about one to two hours for the museum and tower. A queue for the lift may add time.
Does St. Nicholas' Church hold concerts?
Yes. Organ concerts are held in the main hall, which is known for its acoustics.
