St Olav's Church is a medieval church located in the historic city of Tallinn, Estonia. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is known for its impressive Gothic architecture. The church was originally built in the 12th century and has undergone several renovations and additions over the years.
The church is named after King Olav II of Norway, who was canonized as a saint after his death in the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030. St Olav's Church was once the tallest building in Tallinn, standing at a height of 159 meters. However, the spire was struck by lightning several times and had to be rebuilt multiple times. Today, the spire stands at a height of 123 meters.
The interior of St Olav's Church is just as impressive as the exterior. The church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate wood carvings, and ornate altars. Visitors can also see the remains of medieval frescoes on the walls.
St Olav's Church has played an important role in the history of Tallinn. It was once a center of religious and cultural life in the city and was used as a meeting place for the city council. During the Soviet era, the church was used as a radio tower and was closed to the public. However, after Estonia regained its independence in 1991, the church was restored and opened to visitors once again.
Today, St Olav's Church is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Tallinn's rich history and culture. Visitors can climb to the top of the spire for stunning views of the city or attend one of the many concerts and events held in the church throughout the year.
